'"•I 


CORRESPONDENCE 


OF 


ME.  RALPH  IZAKD, 


OF 


SOUTH  CAROLINA, 
FROM  THE  YEAR  1774  TO  1801; 


WITH    A 


SHORT   MEMOIR, 


VOLUME  I. 


NEW- YORK: 
CHARLES  S.  FRANCIS  &  CO. 

252   BROADWAY. 

1844. 


X-.  « /f 

T"  V    i    »      > 

-L  6 


Entered,  according  to  act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1844, 

By  ANNE  IZARD  DEAS, 
In  the  Clerk's  Office  of  the  Southern  District  of  New  York. 


TO  THE 

CITIZENS  OF  THE  UNITED  STATES, 

AND  ESPECIALLY  THOSE 
OF  THE 

STATE  OF  SOUTH  CAROLINA, 

THE  FOLLOWING 

MEMOIR    AND    CORRESPONDENCE 

ARE  RESPECTFULLY  DEDICATED. 


ADVERTISEMENT. 


IN  laying  the  following  letters  before  the  world — I  believe  I  shall 
be  doing  it  an  acceptable  service — at  the  same  time  that  I  shall  be 
discharging  a  duty  to  both  my  Parents — as  on  receiving  them  from 
my  mother — she  expressed  a  strong  desire  that  they  might  be  pub 
lished — and  the  name  of  one  who  deserved  so  well  of  his  country 
— be  rescued  from  oblivion. 

The  task  of  arranging  them  has  been  a  pleasant  and  (fortunate 
ly)  an  easy  one — as  there  was  little  more  to  do — than  to  place  them 
according  to  their  dates — and  as  much  as  possible — avoid  repeti 
tions. 

The  Memoir  would  be  quite  inadequate — did  not  the  letters  them 
selves  supply  all  its  deficiencies,  and  give  a  more  correct  view  of 
my  father's  character — than  could  be  obtained  by  any  other  mode. 
They  will — I  trust — prove  that  his  motto  was  well  chosen  and  ap 
propriate.  ANNE  IZARD  DEAS. 

New  York,  August,  1844. 


MEMOIR 


RALPH    IZARD 


Mr.  IZARD'S  ancestors  were  English — and  came  to  America  in 
the  reign  of  Queen  Anne.  They  settled  in  South  Carolina — where 
they  acquired  considerable  possessions,  in  different  parts  of  the  State. 

The  family  residence — called  "  The  Elms" — was  situated  in  St. 
James'  Parish,  Goose-Creek — about  seventeen  miles  from  Charles 
ton. 

He  was  named  Ralph — after  his  Grandfather.  His  father — Mr, 
Henry  Izard — died  young — leaving  only  two  children — the  subject 
of  this  Memoir — and  Margaret — afterwards  married  to  Mr.  Daniel 
Blake — she  died  without  children. 

Ralph  was  sent  at  a  very  early  age  to  England — and  placed  at 
school  at  Hackney — and  his  education  was  finished  at  Christ  Col- 
lege,  Cambridge. 

He  then  came  to  America — and  took  possession  of  his  Estate. 
He  passed  a  good  deal  of  his  time  in  New  York,  where  he  was 


VI  MEMOIR. 

much  in  the  society  of  Mr.  James  DC  Lancey — then  Lieutenant- 
Governor  of  that  Province. 

He  married  his  Niece — Miss  Alice  De  Lancey — daughter  of  Mr. 
Peter  De  Lancey,  of  West  Chester. 

Mr.  Izard  generally-— while  in  America — passed  the  winters  in 
Carolina,  and  the  summers  in  New  York.  In  1771 — some  years 
after  his  marriage — (which  took  place  in  1767,)  he  went  to  Eng 
land,  and  settled  in  a  delightful  house  in  London ;  where — for  a 
few  years— Jie  enjoyed  every  blessing  this  world  can  afford. 

He  was  in  the  best — and  most  intellectual  society — .and  possessed 
the  friendship  of  some  of  the  first  men  in  that  country — which  will 
be  apparent  from  their  letters — on  his  quitting  it. 

His  ample  fortune  was  spent  in  the  liberal  encouragement  of 
merit  of  every  kind.  He  collected  a  fine  Library— and  was  an  en 
thusiastic  admirer  of  painting  and  music. 

His  high  and  independent  spirit  was  evinced,  long  before  the 
Revolutionary  war  took  place — as  the  following  anecdote  will 
prove  : — -His  friends  in  England  were  desirous  that  lie  should  be 
presented  at  Court — but  he  always  declined  the  honor — because— 
as  a  subject — it  would  have  been  necessary  for  him  to  bow  the  knee 
— which  he  said  he  never  would  do — to  mortal  man. 

In  1774.  tire  measures  pursued  by  Government — gave  great  un 
easiness  to  the  friends  of  liberty — and  particularly  to  Americans — 
and  his  mind  became  so  harrassed — that  in  order  to  relieve  it — he 

determined  to  cross  the  channel— and  travel  on  the  continent.     Ho 

ftRTMft  /*"*" 
with  his  wife— =and  an  intelligent  friend — visited  everything  worth 

seeing  in  the  Countries  through  which  they  passed. 

His  pleasure — .-however—- was  greatly  damped — (as  his  letters  will 
show) — by  the  clouds  which  continued  to  thicken  over  his  own 
country — to  which  he  was  devotedly  attached. 

On  his  return  the  next  year  to  England — he  in  conjunction  with 
other  American  gentlemen — did  all  that  was  possible,  to  avert  the 
— and  open  the  eyes  of  the  King,  and  his  Ministers — and 


MEMOIR.  Vll 

when  he  found  that  their  efforts  were  all  in  vain-— and  that  Go 
vernment  continued  to  heap  injuries  on  America — he  broke  up  his 
establishment — and  quitted  the  country  of  his  choice ;  not — of 
course — without  great  reluctance. 

Intending  to  come  to  America,  he  wrote  to  inquire  whether  he 
might  be  permitted  to  bring  his  furniture — plate — horses,  &c.,  (the 
non-importation  law  having  passed.)  Congress  passed  a  resolution 
allowing  him  to  do  so — but  some  of  his  friends — in  that  body — 
thinking  he  might  be  more  serviceable  to  his  country  in  Europe — 
and  finding  great — and  almost  insuperalile  difficulties  to  prevent 
his  coming — he  determined  on  taking  his  family  to  France — which 
he  did  in  1777. 

Soon  after  his  removal— he  was  ppointed  by  the  Congress  Min 
ister,  (or  Commissioner,  as  the  title  then  was) — to  the  Court  of  the 
Grand  Duke  of  Tuscany* 

The  anxiety  of  his  mind — at  the  then  disastrous  condition  of  his 
country — brought  on  a  dreadful  fit  of  the  Gout — which  threatened 
his  life — and  confined  him — in  a  state  of  helplessness — for  several 
months  to  his  bed.. 

The  Independence  of  America,  not  having  been  acknowledged 
— he  thought  it  inexpedient  to  proceed  immediately  to  Italy — and 
some  changes  having  taken  place  on  the  Continent  which  prevent 
ed  the  Grand  Duke  from  following  his  own  inclination  on  that  sub 
ject — he  determined  to  return  home. 

Dr.  Franklin  and  Mr.  Deane  had  carefully  concealed  from  Mr. 
I/ard,  the  opportunities  that  occurred  for  writing  to  America — and 
owing  to  that  circumstance — his  despatches  did  not  reach  the  Con 
gress,  until  long  after  Mr.  Deane  had  been  there— -and  had  made 
such  representations — or  rather  misrepresentations — as  induced 
them  to  pass  a  Resolution  to  recall  Mr.  Izard — before  his  request 
to  return  had  been  received. 

The  Secretary  of  the  Committee  for  foreign  affairs,  wrote  him 
the  following  letter :— - 


Vlli  MEMOIR. 

Philadelphia,  17th  July,  1779. 

SIR — Your  letter  of  March  the  4th  was  read  in  Congress,  three 
days  ago — being  then  only  first  received  by  the  Committee  of  fo 
reign  affairs. 

We  should  have  been  very  happy,  to  have  received  it  before  the 
8th  of  June — as  it  would  undoubtedly  have  founded  a  Resolve  of 
Congress — more  agreeable  to  us  to  communicate  officially,  than  that 
to  which  we  must  now  refer  you — in  their  Journals — printed  au 
thoritatively — by  David  C.  Claypoole — and  which  are  in  the  hands 
of  Dr.  Franklin — or  Dr.  Arthur  Lee,  at  Passy. 

We  have  till  now  omitted  to  forward  that  Resolve — for  your  re 
call  from  the  Court  of  Tuscany — as  we  daily  expected  a  settlement 
of  a  definite  recompense  for  your  services  to  these  United  States ; 
but  the  modes  of  doing  business — in  such  an  Assembly  as  Congress 
— will  not  warrant  our  detaining — until  such  settlement — some  im 
portant  papers,  committed  to  us,  to  be  sent  to  the  Court  of  France. 
We  are,  with  sincere  regard,  Sir,  your  most  humble  serv'ts. 

JAMES  LOVELL, 
For  the  Committee  of  Foreign  Affairs. 

Honorable  RALPH  IZARD. 

He  also  received — afterwards — the  following  letter  from  the  Pre 
sident  of  Congress : — 

Philadelphia,  August  19th,  1780. 

SIR — By  the  act  of  Congress  of  the  9th  instant — herewith  en 
closed — you  will  be  informed,  that  Congress  are  convinced  of  your 
faithful  endeavors,  to  fulfil  the  objects  of  your  commission — therein 
mentioned — and  approve  of  the  reasons  which  determined  you  not 
to  proceed  to  the  Court  of  Tuscany. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  with  every  sentiment  of  respect, 
Your  most  humble  servant, 

SAM.  HUNTINGTON,  President. 
The  Honorable  Mr.  IZARD. 

p.  g. — Please  to  excuse  the  delay  of  furnishing  you  with  this  act 
— which  was  occasioned  by  a  mere  accident. 


MEMOIR.  IX 

The  motives  that  actuated  Dr.  Franklin,  and  Mr.  Deane,  were 
not  to  be  mistaken.  Should  the  publication  of  these  letters  be  con 
tinued — it  will  very  clearly  be  seen,  that  the  public  good  was  con 
stantly  sacrificed  to  private  interest — and  it  was  not  agreeable  to 
those  gentlemen — to  have  so  clear-sighted  and  strictly  honest  a  wit 
ness,  to  the  abuses,  then  carrying  on  in  France. 

Congress  passed  a  resolution  to  honor  the  draft  Mr.  Izard  had 
made  on  the  Commissioners  in  France — which  Dr.  Franklin  had 
refused  to  do — and  not  only  so — but  he  wrote  him  such  an  offensive 
letter — that  Mr.  Lee,  and  Mr.  Adams,  (who  had  superseded  Mr. 
Deane,)  refused  to  sign  it.* 

Mr.  Izard  had  kept  up  a  correspondence  with  the  Abbe  Niccoli — 
who  was  the  Tuscan  Minister  at  Paris — and  was  enabled  to  give 
useful  information  to  the  Congress — who  were  desirous  that  he 
should  be  consulted — respecting  the  Treaties  of  Commerce — and 
Alliance— to  be  made  with  France. 

At  this  time — and  on  this  occasion — it  was  that  a  difference  arose 
between  Mr.  Izard,  and  Dr.  Franklin — the  particulars  of  which  will 
appear — if  ever  the  whole  of  the  correspondence  with  many  of  the 
leading  men  of  the  time  is  published — both  during  the  struggle  for 
Independence — and  after  it  was  achieved, 

Facts  will  be  discovered — which  will  no  doubt  surprise  many— 
the  Editor  can  only  regret  the  facts — they  can  neither  be  altered — 
nor  withheld. 

The  two  articles — the  llth  and  12th — in  the  commercial  Treaty, 
to  which  Mr.  Izard  objected,  and  wished  to  have  left  out — without 
effect — were  expunged  by  the  Congress — he  having  written  to  his 
friends  there— ^to  attend  to  them — as  they  would  have  proved  very 
injurious  to  America  in  general — and  particularly  so—to  the  South 
ern  interest. 

*  In  Duane's  Life  of  Franklin,  an  attempt  is  made  at  explana 
tion — but  it  is  by  no  means  satisfactory. 


X  MEMOIR. 

Had  not  the  Treaty  of  Alliance  been  pertinaciously  concealed 
from  him — during  the  time  it  was  in  progress — (in  direct  violation 
of  the  orders  of  Congress) — and  had  his  advice  been  acted  upon — 
in  all  probability  the  Floridas  would  not  have  fallen  into  the  hands 
of  the  Spaniards  at  the  peace  of  1783. 

He  had  a  long  correspondence  with  Mr.  Adams — on  the  subject 
of  the  Fisheries — and  dwelt  on  the  necessity  there  was  for  the 
Americans  to  establish  their  rights — before  it  was  too  late — and  it 
is  rather  singular  that  he  appears  to  have  considered  this  a  matter 
of  more  importance  than  Mr.  Adams  did — although  the  latter  was 
from  New  England. 

When  Commodore  Gillon  was  sent  from  South  Carolina  to  Eu 
rope — to  purchase  Frigates — and  for  that  purpose  to  obtain  a  loan 
— he  could  not  effect  the  object  on  the  security  of  the  State  Govern 
ment  alone.  Mr.  Izard  came  forward,  and  pledged  his  whole  Es 
tate — and  the  business  was  then  settled. 

It  appears — from  his  letters  of  1775 — that  he  had  a  very  correct 
view  of  the  intentions  of  France  towards  America. 

His  mind  was  continually  occupied  in  devising  means — for  the 
relief  of  his  country  in  general — and  especially  for  sending  supplies 
to  his  own  State — which  will  appear  in  the  course  of  the  corres 
pondence.  Many  letters  are  missing — but  still  a  sufficient  number 
remain  to  form  a  connected — and  certainly  a  very  authentic — his 
tory  of  the  important  and  interesting  events  recorded  in  them — 
from  the  year  1774  to  that  of  1795 — the  period  at  which  he  finally 
quitted  public  life.*  Some  merely  of  a  mercantile  nature — have 
been  placed  in  this  collection — as  they  may  have  an  interest  for 
that  class  of  gentlemen — although  not  much  to  general  readers. 

*  The  last  volume  is  chiefly  composed  of  letters  from  his  son-in- 
law — Mr.  William  Smith — who  was  a  leading  member  of  the  House 
of  Representatives  for  eight  years — and  who  was  sent  Minister  to 
Portugal  in  1797 — by  the  first  President  Adams.  Before  he  re 
turned  home — he  went  to  Paris,  and  was  there — during  the  eventful 
period  that  Bonaparte  was  making  such  rapid  strides — to  the  emi 
nence  he  soon  after  attained. 


MEMOIR.  XI 

He  had  the  happiness  of  possessing  some  most  sincere  friends — 
one  in  particular — who,  having  gone  to  India — and  been  successful 
there — sent  him  Bills  of  exchange  to  a  considerable  amount — fear 
ing  (as  was  the  case)  that  American  remittances  would  be  stopped. 
They  were  accepted  with  the  same  frankness  that  they  were  offer 
ed — and  the  money  of  course  repaid — with  interest — after  the  ter 
mination  of  the  war. 

He  arrived  in  America  in  1780 — and  immediately  repaired  to 
General  Washington's  Head  Quarters — where  he  happened  to  be 
— when  Arnold's  treachery  was  discovered. 

It  appears — from  the  letters  of  that  period — that  he  influenced 
the  Commander-in-Chief  to  send  General  Greene  to  take  command 
of  the  Southern  Army — for  which  he  received  the  thanks  of  the 
Governor  of  South  Carolina.  From  that  time — as  is  well  known — 
a  favorable  change  took  place  in  American  affairs — which  led  to 
the  surrender  of  Cornwallis — and  the  termination  of  the  war. 

It  is  likewise  highly  probable  that  the  appointment — by  Congress 
— of  Colonel  Laurens,  on  a  special  Embassy  to  France — was  made 
in  consequence  of  the  information  given  by  Mr.  Izard — and  the  im 
portant  assistance  which  almost  immediately  followed — from  that 
country — corroborates  the  opinion  he  so  often  repeated — that  the 
American  Agent  then  resident  in  France — was  lukewarm  and  in 
efficient. 

Shortly  after,  he  was  chosen  one  of  the  Delegates  from  South 
Carolina  to  Congress — where  he  remained  until  the  Peace.  It  was 
proposed  to  him  to  allow  his  name  to  appear  as  candidate  for  Go 
vernor  of  tha  t  State — which  he  declined — thinking  that,  as  he  had 
been  so  long  abroad — he  might  not  (as  well  as  some  others)  under 
stand  the  local  interests  of  his  countrymen. 

His  family — whom  he  had  left  in  France — joined  him  in  1783, 
at  Philadelphia — and  soon  after  he  returned  with  them  to  Carolina, 
where  they  found  everything  in  the  most  deplorable  state  of  dilapi 
dation — particularly  his  old  family  residence — so  much  so — that 


Xll  MEMOIR. 

they  feared  it  was  uninhabitable.  However,  energy — and  good 
management — soon  restored  things  to  some  order — and  though  he 
never  felt  entitled  to  live  as  he  had  formerly  done  (having  sustain 
ed  great  losses)  his  house  was  always  the  seat  of  liberal  hospitality, 
He  now  devoted  himself  to  agriculture,  and  the  care  of  his  Es 
tate — which  had  been  sequestered  for  some  years.  He  also  pointed 
out  new  channels  of  Commerce  for  his  Countrymen — which  his 
European  correspondents  enabled  him  to  do. 

But  he  was  not  long  allowed  to  remain  in  retirement ;  as — on 
the  formation  of  the  Federal  Government — he  was  chosen  Senator 
for  six  years. 

He  once  more  embarked  on  the  stormy  sea  of  Politics — where 
his  love  of  freedom — his  liberal  mind — strict  integrity—  and  un 
flinching  rectitude,  were  fully  evinced — and  though  he  differed  in 
opinion  with  many  of  his  contemporaries — he  never  lost  the  respect 
of  any. 

Holding  the  station  he  did — he  was  frequently  applied  to — for 
his  influence  to  obtain  offices  under  Government — and  General 
Washington  remarked — that  he  had  never  been  disappointed  in  the 
character  of  those  who  had  been  recommended  to  him  by  Mr.  Izard. 
On  one  occasion  particularly — he  having  procured  the  appointment 
of  Mr.  Timothy  Pickering,  as  Post-Master  General — he  received 
the  thanks  of  General  Washington — for  having  pointed  out  to  him 
BO  meritorious  a  man — and  one  so  well  qualified  to  fill  the  office. 

He  was  a  firm  and  consistent  advocate  for  liberty — true — ration* 
ai  liberty — not  the  wild  Democracy,  that  threatened  about  the  year 
1790 — to  degenerate  into  anarchy,  and  be  subversive  of  all  order — 
and  good  Government.  Many  of  his  letters  of  that  period — show 
his  real  sentiments. 

Mr.  Izard  served  out  the  time  for  which  he  had  been  chosen  in 
Congress— making  occasional  visits  to  Carolina. 

During  the  absence  of  the  Vice  President  on  one  occasion — he 
was  chosen  President  of  the  Senate. 


MEMOIR.  Xlll 

In  the  year  1795,  he  took  a  final  leave  of  public  life — and  return- 
ed  home  with  the  hope  of  passing  the  evening  of  his  days — in  the 
calm  enjoyment  of  rural  occupation — and  the  society  of  his  family 
and  friends.  But  Heaven  decreed  it  otherwise.  In  less  than  two 
years — he  was  seized  in  an  instant,  with  the  dreadful  malady,  that 
deprived  him  of  the  use  of  one  side — and  reduced  him  from  a  state 
of  perfect  health — and  unusual  activity — to  one  of  deplorable  help 
lessness.  Yet  his  intellect  was  mercifully  spared — and  the  strength 
of  his  mind — and  his  religious  principle — were  never  more  appa 
rent  than  during  the  seven  years  that  he  lived  after  the  attack. 

His  malady  resisted  all  the  remedies  that  were  then  known — 
either  at  home  or  in  Europe.  Electricity — galvanism — (just  then 
brought  into  use  in  France) — vital  air — steam  baths — all  were  tried 
— and  persisted  in — while  there  was  any  hope  of  benefit — but  final 
ly  they  were  all  abandoned — as  he  found  relief  only  from  frequent 
cupping  at  the  back  of  the  neck — which  operation  used  to  be  per 
formed  by  one  of  his  own  servants — who  attended  him  throughout 
his  long  illness — and  received  his  freedom — as  the  reward  of  his 
faithful  services. 

He  always  took  a  lively  interest  in  all  public  occurrences — had 
the  newspapers — and  all  the  new  publications  of  merit  read  to  him 
— and  continued  to  collect  his  numerous  family — and  intimate 
friends  around  him — whenever  he  was  well  enough  to  do  so. 

His  apt  quotations — (from  a  well  stored  mind — and  most  reten 
tive  memory) — both  from  the  ancient  and  modern  languages — often 
amused  and  delighted  his  companions — and  proved  that  however 
much  the  body  was  debilitated — the  mind  was  still  in  full  vigor. 

His  personal  appearance  was  prepossessing — being  tall — (full  six 
feet) — well  proportioned — and  graceful.  He  excelled  in  Horse 
manship — and  in  all  the  manly  exercises  then  in  vogue — such  as 
Cricket,  Tennis,  &c. 

He  expired  on  the  30th  May,  1804,  in  the  sixty-second  year  of 


XIV  MEMOIR. 

his  age — and  was  buried  at  the  Parish  Church  of  St.  James,  Goose- 
Creek — where  a  Marble  Tablet  was  placed  to  his  memory. 

He  was  remarkable  for  his  taste — and  built  a  house  in  Charles 
ton — which  formed  one  of  its  chief  ornaments— as  long  as  it  stood. 
It  was  burnt  down  in  1828. 


The  following  extract  of  a  letter  written  to  him  in  1781 — will 
account  for  the  motto— and  the  likeness:—"  I  had  pleasure  in  find 
ing  what  I  knew  were  your  measures  adopted.  I  hope  you  will 
have  the  credit  of  them — and  yet  I  sometimes  fear  the  contrary. 
I  am  studying  to  bring  myself  to  such  a  temper  of  mind  as  will 
enable  me  to  acquiesce  in  all  events — with  cheerfulness.  To  re 
sign  your  reputation  would  be  the  hardest  of  all  trials — and  yet  I 
would  rather  do  that — than  resign  the  heart-cheering  consciousness 
that  you  deserve  the  highest. 

"  If  ever  your  Memoirs  should  be  printed  for  posterity — I  should 
wish  your  likeness  to  precede  them — with  this  short  motto—'  An 
honest  man's  the  noblest  work  of  God.'  " 


CORRESPONDENCE. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  Edward  Rutledge,  Esq. 

DIJON,  BURGUNDY,  July  13,  1774. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  am  just  favored  with  your  letter 
of  the  20d  May,  and  am  much  obliged  to  you  for 
the  trouble  you  are  taking  in  my  affairs.  In  my 
last,  I  informed  you  that  I  had  joined  Mr.  Laurens 
to  you  in  the  power  of  attorney.  He  will,  I  hope, 
afford  you  great  assistance  in  rendering  me  this 
service. 

What  do  you  think  of  the  Boston  Port  Law — 
the  act  for  altering  charters,  juries,  &c.,  together 
with  the  Quebec  law  ?  If  the  intentions  of  our 
most  gracious  sovereign  are  not  clearly  seen  in 
these  proceedings  by  every  man  in  the  British 

2 


[2] 

empire,  the  sight  must  be  lost  beyond  the  skill  of 
any  political  occulist. 

Politics  have  given  me,  during  the  course  of  last 
winter  and  spring,  so  much  trouble  and  vexation, 
and  so  little  pleasure,  that  I  am  glad  to  get  a  little 
relief  from  them,  by  flying  to  a  country  where  they 
are  seldom,  or  never,  the  subject  of  conversation. 


From  Edward  Rutkdge,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 
CHARLESTON,  July  21,  1774. 
MY  DEAR  SIR  :  — 


Let  us,  then,  take  leave  of  this  matter,  and  of 
all  money  concerns,  for  a  time,  and  listen  to  an 
affair  of  more  consequence  —  I  mean  the  liberty  of 
America.  The  people  are  at  last  roused.  We 
have  had  the  most  general  meeting  that  has  ever 
been  known  —  almost  every  man  of  consequence 
has  attended.  The  parishes  sent  down  deputies 


to  meet  the  inhabitants  of  Charleston,  in  order  to 
concert  some  plan  for  the  preservation  of  our  lib 
erties.  Three  days  and  three  nights  were  spent  in 
concerting  some  plan.  At  last,  the  one  which  was 
proposed  and  supported  by  my  brother  and  my 
self,  was  come  into  ;  which  was,  not  to  enter  into 
resolutions  at  present,  but  send  deputies  to  the 
northward,  to  meet  in  Congress,  and  give  those 
deputies  full  and  absolute  power  to  agree  to,  or 
propose,  whatever  they  should  think  would  redress 
the  grievances  complained  of.  We  contended 
that  every  plan  which  was  adopted,  as  most  likely 
to  bring  about  the  end  proposed,  should  have 
unanimity,  for  its  basis — that,  if  we  entered  into 
any  resolutions  immediately,  we  could  not  say 
whether  they  would  be  acceded  to  by  the  other 
colonies — that,  if  they  were  not,  the  cause  would 
be  weakened  ;  and,  even  if  they  were,  they  would 
not  be  as  efficacious,  if  come  into  one  after  ano 
ther,  as  if  all  at  once ;  that  a  general  non-importa 
tion  agreement  would  not  do  much  good,  and  a 
partial  one,  a  great  deal  of  harm,  as  it  would  be 
pointing  out  to  Parliament  what  articles  we  could 
not,  in  our  own  opinion,  do  without,  which  would 
occasion  their  being  taxed ;  and  that,  should  that 
not  be  the  case,  yet  much  advantage  could  not  be 
expected  from  it,  as  the  articles  allowed  to  be  im- 


[4] 

ported  were  those  on  which  the  trade  of  Great 
Britain  most  related  to  the  colonies.  But  that  we 
were  against  a  non-importation  or  any  other  agree 
ment,  on  another  ground,  which  was — that  when 
the  deputies  arrived  at  the  northward,  they  might 
think  it  best  to  draw  up  a  remonstrance  in  the 
nature  of  a  bill  of  rights,  and  sending  some  gentle 
man  home  with  it ;  that  if  that  should  be  the  case, 
we  had  beiter  suspend  any  obstruction  to  the 
British  trade,  otherwise,  it  would  be  going  with  a 
request  in  one  hand,  and  a  sword  in  the  other ; 
that  when  such  bill  was  drawn  and  sent  7wme, 
those  who  went  with  it  would  certainly  have  in 
structions  to  tell  the  minister,  or  those  who  ruled, 
that,  unless  our  grievances  were  all  redressed,  we 
would  come  at  once  into  a  firm  resolution,  neither 
to  import  from  Great  Britain  a  single  article  of 
their  manufacture,  or  send  them  a  shillings  worth 
of  our  produce ;  in  short,  we  would  cast  off  all 
communication  with  them,  and  the  best  that  they 
could  expect  from  us  would  be  that  we  should 
live  in  sullen  silence.  This,  you  may  depend  upon 
it,  will  be  the  result  of  a  refusal  from  the  legisla 
ture  of  Great  Britain,  and  if  their  eyes  cannot  be 
opened  by  any  other  means  than  by  their  own 
ruin,  let  it  be  so. 
Deputies  being  agreed  to  be  sent,  a  full  power 


[5] 

having  been  resolved  upon,  the  question  was,  who 
should  be  sent  ?  When  it  was  determined  that 
Mr.  Henry  Middleton,  Mr.  Lynch,  Mr.  Gadsden, 
my  brother  John,  and  myself,  should  be  the  five ; 
several  were  put  in  nomination,  but  the  contest 
lay  between  Mr.  G.,  Mr.  L.  and  myself,  on  the 
one  side,  and  Mr.  Lowndes,  Mr.  Brewton,  and 
Mr.  Pinckney,  on  the  other ;  however,  it  was  car 
ried  by  a  great  majority — say  three  hundred  and 
nmty-seven. 

Mrs.  Rutledge's  health  is  so  poorly  that  her 
physicians  have  advised  me  to  carry  her  to  the 
northward,  which  I  intend  to  do  some  time  in  the 
next  week.  We  have  already  taken  our  passage, 
and  Mr.  Middleton  is  to  go  with  us.  We  shall  be 
gone,  I  suppose,  until  the  middle  or  latter  end  of 
October. 

I  have  got  Mr.  Farr,  who  knows  more  of  your 
concerns  than  any  one  else,  to  take  charge  of  them 
in  my  absence. 

I  believe  you  will  not  only  excuse,  but  thank  me 
too,  if  I  now  take  my  leave,  which  I  shall,  after 
requesting  you  to  present  Harriet's  and  my  re 
spects  to  Mrs.  Izard,  and  assuring  you  that 
I  am,  my  dear  sir, 

Your  affectionate  friend, 

E.  RUTLEDGE. 


[6] 

P.  S.  I  thank  you  for  Lee's  pamphlets.  Mr. 
Lynch  and  myself  will  do  what  is  proper.  I  shall 
write  to  you  again  before  I  leave  the  Province. 

E.  RUTLEDGE. 


From  Mr.  Farr  to  Mr.  hard. 
CHARLESTON,  SOUTH  CAROLINA,  Aug.  8, 1774. 
SIR:— 

Edward  Rutledge,  Esq.  having  had  the 
honor  to  be  chosen  by  the  inhabitants  of  this 
colony,  one  of  the  commissioners  to  meet  commis 
sioners  from  the  other  colonies,  at  Philadelphia,  to 
consult  what  is  proper  to  be  done  on  the  present 
unhappy  situation  of  American  affairs,  has,  accord 
ingly,  gone  on  that  embassy;  but  before  he  left 
this  country,  he  desired  me  to  take  charge  of  your 
estate,  and  overlook  the  same  until  his  return, 
which  I  have  agreed  to  do,  and  you  may  depend 
that  I  will  do  whatever  lies  in  my  power  for  your 
interest  during  the  time  I  have  it  under  my  care. 


[7] 

I  have  no  doubt  but  that  you  have  been  inform 
ed  of  the  steps  taken  by  the  people  of  this  province, 
relative  to  the  measures  intended  to  be  pursued  by 
America,  in  general,  in  opposition  to  the  late  cruel 
acts  of  the  British  Parliament  against  Boston  ;  but 
I  cannot  help  mentioning  to  you,  how  much  the 
good  people  of  this  continent  are  obliged  to  you, 
and  the  other  American  gentlemen,  for  stepping 
forth,  and  endeavoring  to  oppose  the  passing  of 
those  cruel  acts,  and  it  gives  particular  pleasure 
to  the  people  of  this  colony,  to  see  the  names  of  so 
many  of  our  countrymen  to  those  petitions.  The 
unjustifiable  and  arbitrary  proceedings  of  the  Brit 
ish  Parliament,  against  the  Americans,  have  so 
roused  the  people  on  this  continent,  that  I  dare 
say  they  will  never  be  forgotten ;  and  I  think  I 
can  venture  to  say,  that  although  we  cannot,  at 
present,  use  violence  in  opposing  them,  yet  the 
unhappy  consequences  which  must  ensue  from  such 
proceedings,  will  ultimately  fall  on  the  people  of 
Great  Britain. 

The  inhabitants  of  this  province  are  firmly  re 
solved  to  go  on  in  the  opposition  with  spirit ;  and 
even  the  most  mild  and  moderate  of  the  people, 
have  shown  themselves  on  the  occasion,  (except  a 
few  Scotchmen.)  The  meeting  of  our  general 
Assembly  was  to  be  by  the  Lieutenant  Governor's 


[8] 

prorogation,  at  the  close  of  the  last  session,  on  the  3d 
of  this  month.  The  members  all  attended  early  that 
morning,  and  sent  to  acquaint  the  Lieutenant  Gov 
ernor,  as  usual,  that  the  house  was  met,  and  also 
went  through  the  other  parliamentary  forms  be 
fore  they  proceeded  to  business.  The  Lieutenant 
Governor,  intending  to  prevent  the  assembly  from 
doing  any  business  by  proroguing  them,  was  much 
surprised  to  find  the  house  had  met  so  soon ;  he, 
therefore,  immediately  hurried  away  to  the  council 
chamber,  to  meet  the  Council  and  Assembly,  to 
prorogue  their  meeting  to  a  future  day ;  but  the 
members  of  his  Majesty's  Council,  being  mostly 
out  of  town,  before  the  messengers  could  get  one 
Councillor  to  attend,  the  House  of  Assembly  had 
time  to  proceed  to  the  consideration  of  those  mea 
sures  taken  with  Boston  ;  and  also  the  result  of  the 
deliberations  of  the  people  of  this  province  at  their 
great  and  general  meeting,  and  did  recognize  the 
several  resolutions  which  the  people  had  entered 
into,  and  confirm  that  of  sending  the  Commissioners 
to  the  Congress,  and  at  the  same  time,  resolved  to 
provide  £  1,500  sterling,  to  pay  their  expenses  on 
that  service.  The  Lieutenant  Governor,  after 
waiting  for  his  Councillors,  or  at  least  for  three  of 
them,  to  make  a  board,  found  he  could  get  but  one 
of  them ;  he  thereupon  sent  for  the  House  of  Assem- 


[9] 

bly,  and  upon  their  attending  his  Honor  in  the 
Council  chamber,  he  addressed  himself  to  that 
one  Councillor,  and  to  the  House,  telling  them  he 
thought  it  for  his  Majesty's  service  that  the  general 
Assembly  should  be  prorogued  to  a  future  day,  and 
accordingly  prorogued  it.  The  Lieutenant  Gov 
ernor  immediately  got  a  copy  of  the  proceedings 
of  the  House  of  Assembly  on  that  day,  and  sent  it 
to  the  ministry.  I  suppose  Lord  North,  will  be 
displeased  with  the  Lieutenant  Governor  for  suf 
fering  the  Assembly  to  meet,  and  not  proroguing 
it  before  the  day  of  meeting  ;  but  I  think  he  may 
as  well  be  displeased  with  the  members  of  his 
Majesty's  Council  for  not  being  in  the  way  when 
the  King's  service  required  their  attendance. 

I  have  taken  the  liberty  of  giving  you  an  ac 
count  of  the  foregoing  proceedings,  believing  it 
will  be  agreeable  to  you  to  hear  of  every  measure 
which  is  taken  for  the  benefit  of  America. 


t  10] 

From  Mr.  hard  to  Geo.  Dempster,  Esq.  London. 

GENEVA,  August  8,  1774. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  did  myself  the  pleasure  of  writing 
to  you  from  Paris,  and  a  few  days  after  received 
your  favor,  which  informed  me  of  your  having  let 
my  house  for  three  years.  I  am  perfectly  satisfied 
with  what  you  have  done,  and  beg  you  will  accept 
my  thanks  for  the  trouble  you  have  taken.  I  am  so 
sensible  of  your  friendship,  that  I  am  certain  you 
did  every  thing  for  my  interest  that  could  be  done. 
You  mention  nothing  about  my  two  pictures.  The 
conversation  piece,  over  the  chimney,  in  the  par 
lor,  and  Mrs.  Izard's  portrait,  in  the  middle  draw 
ing-room.  Will  you  be  so  good  as  to  have  them 
sent  to  Mr.  West's,  in  Newman-street,  and  beg 
the  favor  of  him  to  take  care  of  them  for  me. 
Mr.  Howard  cannot,  I  think,  have  any  objection. 
If  he  objects  to  parting  with  the  former,  take  the 
latter  only. 

The  colonies  seem  determined  not  to  act  hastily 
or  rashly.     As  they  have  weighed  the  subject  with 


[  11  ] 

great  care  and  attention,  their  conduct  will,  I  hope, 
show  their  wisdom  and  firmness.  My  letters 
promise  every  thing  that  can  be  wished,  when 
they  had  only  heard  of  the  Boston  Port  Bill.  The 
subsequent  measures  of  administration  will  not 
tend  to  relax  them.  I  expect  soon  to  hear  of  a 
Congress,  and  an  American  bill  of  Rights,  sent  from 
the  other  side  of  the  Atlantic.  Would  to  God 
some  means,  honorable  and  satisfactory  to  both 
parties,  could  be  devised,  to  put  an  end  to  this 
cruel  and  unnatural  contest.  Your  exertions,  I 
am  sure,  will  never  be  wanting,  when  proper 
occasions  offer.  I  have  made  a  pretty  extensive 
tour  through  the  south  of  France.  The  climate 
resembles  so  much,  that  of  Carolina  and  Virginia, 
that  the  productions  of  one,  might,  without  doubt, 
be  drawn  from  the  other.  At  Marseilles  and  other 
parts,  I  saw  large  quantities  of  rice  from  Carolina, 
and  wheat  from  New- York,  and  the  preference 
given  to  them,  when  compared  to  other  wheat  and 
Levant  rice. 

The  husbandry  through  all  parts  of  France,  that 
I  have  passed,  seems  inferior  to  that  of  America. 
I  am  much  pleased  with  this  little  republic,  and  am 
astonished  at  its  having  preserved  itself  amidst 
the  almost  general  wreck  of  the  liberties  of  Europe. 
I  have  had  some  political  conversations  with  two 


I  12] 

of  the  principal  inhabitants,  who  look  upon  the  dis 
pute  between  England  and  America  as  a  great 
misfortune  to  all  the  free  and  independent  states 
of  Europe  ;  as  the  loss  of  the  affections  of  America 
may  tend  to  weaken  England,  and  destroy  that 
balance  of  power,  which  secures  their  indepen 
dence.  England  does  not  see  things  in  the  same 
light ;  perhaps  she  does  not  deign  to  examine  the 
proposition.  We  propose  making  a  tour  of  ten 
days,  or  a  fortnight,  into  Switzerland,  and  then 
cross  the  Alps  to  Turin.  In  about  two  months  I 
expect  to  be  at  Florence. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  Henry  Laurens,  Esq.  London. 
GENEVA,  August  22,  1774. 

DEAR  SIR  : — 

On  my  arrival  here,  I  inquired  after 
your  two  sons,  and  was  disappointed  in  not  seeing 
them.  I  am  just  returned  from  a  tour  of  ten  days 
into  Switzerland,  which  has  given  me  much  plea- 


[  13] 

sure.  The  country  is  either  a  much  finer  one 
than  France,  or  the  peasants,  knowing  that  the 
fruits  of  their  labor  cannot  be  taken  from  them  by 
the  rude  hand  of  power,  have  bestowed  such  cul 
tivation  on  it,  as  makes  it  appear  so. 

I  am  delighted  at  seeing  so  many  seats  of  free 
dom,  surrounded  by  so  many  powerful  tyrants.  It 
would  be  fortunate  for  them  if  another  Luther  and 
Calvin  could  make  them  all  protestants  ;  for  the 
difference  of  religious  opinions,  makes  the  Cantons 
jealous  of  each  other,  and  refuse  to  incorporate 
their  allies  with  themselves,  lest  one  party  or  other 
should  get  an  advantage  by  it.  This  may  prove 
fatal  to  them  some  time  or  other.  Our  country 
has  no  such  cause  for  jealousy  and  disunion,  and, 
therefore,  I  hope  in  God,  she  may  guard  against 
the  fatal  effects  of  them. 

General  Gage's  conduct  displeases  me  much. 
His  proclamation  against  the  Congress,  and  his 
answer  to  the  address  of  the  Council,  seem  to  me 
full  of  insolence  and  haughtiness.  These  qualities 
are  not  natural  to  him ;  he  must  have  imbibed 
them  during  his  last  visit  to  England.  If  the  op 
pressions  of  America  continue,  and  her  efforts  to 
get  rid  of  them  prove  ineffectual,  I  shall  not  hesi 
tate  about  settling  in  this  part  of  the  world.  There 
are  no  nobility,  no  standing  army,  no  taxes,  no 
3 


[  14  ] 

custom-house  officers,  and,  above  all,  no  King — the 
support  of  whose  pride,  pomp  and  intolerable  vani 
ty,  by  courtiers,  called  necessary  expenses,  inevita 
bly  produces  these,  and  a  thousand  other  griev 
ances.  Our  party  continues  all  well,  and  desire 
their  compliments  to  you. 

Mr.  Lee  and  I,  this  morning,  attempted  a  visit 
to  Voltaire.  We  were  admitted  no  farther  than 
his  courtyard,  and,  upon  sending  in  our  names,  the 
servant  brought  this  answer:  "Par  Dieu  Je  suis 
malade"  We  were  taught  to  expect  this,  before 
we  went.  His  age  and  infirmities  make  him 
peevish,  and  the  intrusion  of  many  stupid,  young 
travelling  Englishmen,  who  have  visited  him,  as 
strangers  do  the  lions,  in  the  tower,  has  given  him 
such  a  disinclination  to  company,  that  it  is  very 
difficult  to  get  admittance  to  him. 

I  heartily  wish  you  a  safe  and  pleasant  passage, 
and  enjoyment  of  your  health  in  that  country, 
where,  I  think  it  the  greatest  misfortune,  my  want 
of  health,  will  not  suffer  me  to  live. 


To  the  same. 

FLORENCE,  October  18,  1774. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  received  your  letter  about  ten  days 
ago,  since  which,  I  have  made  a  tour  through 
Lucca  Pisa  and  Leghorn.  At  the  last  place,  I 
found  a  vessel  ready  to  sail  for  New- York.  By 
her,  I  did  myself  the  pleasure  of  writing  to  you. 
As  my  letter,  by  that  conveyance,  may  not  get  to 
your  hands,  I  shall  repeat  part  of  it. 

You  mention  your  power  of  attorney  not  allow 
ing  you  to  sell  land.  Mr.  Rutledge's  power  not 
only  extends  to  the  sale  of  the  land,  and  town  lots, 
but  also  to  my  country  property.  You  will  con 
sult  him  about  the  sale,  as  his  letter  of  attorney  em 
powers  him  to  make  titles.  If  I  am  mistaken,  you 
will  be  so  good  as  to  let  me  know  it,  and  I  will 
send  you  any  power  you  may  think  proper.  It 
will  be  very  necessary  for  us  to  think  of  the  means 
of  clothing  our  negroes,  if  our  disputes  with  Eng 
land  continue,  which,  I  am  inclined  to  think,  they 
will.  Pray,  at  all  events,  let  there  be  a  consider- 


[  16  ] 

able  quantity  of  cotton  planted  for  me ;  and  I  beg 
that,  before  the  non-importation  takes  place,  you 
will  be  so  good  as  to  provide  such  a  stock  of 
negro  cloth  and  blankets,  that  these  poor  people 
may  not  suffer. 

I  should  be  obliged  to  you,  if  you  would  endea 
vor  to  get  me  some  white  mulberry-trees  planted 
at  Goose  Creek,  and  you  will  be  so  good  as  to 
have  a  part  of  the  garden  there  well  prepared  and 
manured,  and  sow  a  good  quantity  of  white  mul 
berry-seed  in  a  nursery.  From  the  appearance  of 
the  soil  and  climate  of  the  Milanese  and  Piedmont, 
where  the  best  silk  is  produced,  I  think  ours  may 
produce  as  good.  There  can,  at  least,  be  no  harm 
in  trying.  I  imagine  you  can  get  both  plants  and 
seed  at  Purysburg.  The  proper  time  to  transplant 
the  mulberry-trees,  is  at  three  years  old  ;  the  holes 
in  which  they  are  put,  should  be  five  feet  each 
way,  and  five  feet  deep.  Manure  must  be  put  into 
the  holes  when  the  trees  are  planted.  They 
should  be  planted  in  lines,  at  the  distance  of  twen 
ty  feet  one  way,  and  fifty  feet  the  other,  and  shoulii 
have  straw  wrapped  round  the  trunks,  to  guard 
them  from  the  cold  in  winter.  If  you  can  get  any 
young  trees  for  me,  I  should  be  glad  to  have  them 
planted  in  the  field,  behind  the  stables.  I  should  have 
sent  some  Turkey  cotton-seed,  from  Leghorn,  but 


L  n  J 

was  informed  there,  that  our  own  West  India  cot 
ton  was  much  better,  and  bore  a  higher  price  than 
that  from  the  Levant.  I  shall  send  you  some 
white  mulberry-seed,  as  I  am  told  it  is  remarkably 
good  here. 

I  have  heard  nothing  from  Mr.  Lynch,  or  Mr. 
Rutledge,  about  the  answer  to  the  considerations, 
or  the  American  petitions.  I  shall  certainly  be  in 
London  by  the  first  of  June,  very  likely  before 
that  time,  and  hope  to  find  such  supplies  there,  as 
will  enable  me  to  leave  England  whenever  I  please, 
without  embarrassment.  As  to  the  time,  I  shall 
act  according  to  circumstances.  I  hope  the  poli 
tics  and  resolutions  of  Georgia,  may  keep  pace 
with  those  of  Carolina.  There  is  a  certain  digni 
fied  scoundrel,  who  will  not  fail  to  prevent  it  if  he 
can.  I  have  not  seen  any  notice  taken  of  those 
gentlemen,  who  were  so  officious  in  offering  them 
selves  as  securities  for  the  tea.  I  am  of  opinion, 
that  whether  a  general  non-importation  agreement 
takes  place  or  not,  every  friend  to  America,  ought 
solemnly  to  engage  to  have  no  more  dealings  with 
them.  There  is  no  doubt,  but  our  present  unhap 
py  situation,  is  in  a  great  measure  owing  to  them. 
One  of  them,  I  know,  owes  his  existence  to  the 
gentlemen  of  Carolina ;  and  when  a  man  repays 
favors,  with  such  infamous  ingratitude,  it  is  not 


[  18  ] 

only  weak,  but  criminal  to  support  him.  There  is  a 
ridiculous  notion  propagated,  that  he  sells  indigo, 
better  than  other  people.  This  I  cannot  believe ; 
but  even  were  it  true,  it  is  a  very  insufficient  rea 
son  why  he  should  be  placed  in  a  state  of  princely 
magnificence,  and  by  that  means,  be  the  better  en 
abled  to  exercise  with  credit  and  authority,  his 
enmity  against  us. 

Mr.  Rodger  Smith  and  some  others,  should  take 
this  seriously  into  consideration.  It  may  be  too 
delicate  a  matter  for  you  to  mention,  personally,  to 
them,  but  the  newspapers  are  the  proper  vehicles 
for  such  information  and  admonition  to  the  public. 
I  know  your  zeal  in  the  cause,  and  I  hope  you  will 
take  the  trouble  of  being  the  monitor. 


From  Thomas  Lynchj  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

PHILADELPHIA,  October  26, 1774. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

On  my  arrival  here,  I  wrote  you  the 
occasion  of  it.     I  now  have  the  pleasure  of  enclos- 


[  19] 

ing  to  you  a  pamphlet,  which  contains  the  result. 
There  remains  only  an  address  to  the  Canadians 
and  the  petition  to  the  King,  to  complete  all  our 
works,  and  these  will  be  soon  printed  in  England  ; 
should  they  reach  you  abroad,  please  consider 
whether  their  being  translated  into  French  and 
Dutch,  may  not  have  a  good  effect,  as  we  shall 
want  supplies  of  woollens  and  other  goods  from 
them,  in  case  our  mother  country,  (as  it  is  called,) 
continues  her  oppression. 

The  New  England  men,  continue  a  behavior 
truly  heroic.  Without  rashness,  or  any  tumultu 
ous  proceedings  that  belong  to  mobs,  they  oppose 
a  steady,  manly,  cool  and  regular  conduct,  neither 
declining  nor  precipitating  war. 

I  saw  a  gentleman  a  few  days  ago,  who  was  at 
Cambridge,  when  the  men  who  had  met  to  oblige 
the  councillors  and  judges  to  resign  their  offices, 
received  intelligence  that  Gage  was  marching  his 
little  army  to  attack  them.  He  declares  that  this 
news  occasioned  not  the  least  appearance  of  hur 
ry  or  confusion.  The  men  who  were  armed,  pre 
pared  to  receive  their  enemy ;  the  unarmed,  hast 
ed  home,  and  brought  their  arms.  Their  numbers 
being  but  little  superior,  shows  they  will  not  decline 
an  equal  combat.  If  so,  where  is  England  to  find 
an  army  to  encounter  two  hundred  thousand  of 


L  20] 

these  same  New  Englanders,  besides  at  least  five 
hundred  thousand  others,  in  the  rest  of  America, 
who  have  solemnly  engaged  in  the  same  cause. 

I  think  I  mentioned  a  little  speech,  made  by  an 
Assemblyman,  (it  is  said  of  Virginia.)  "  I  will  raise 
and  support,  one  thousand  men  at  my  expense,  as 
long  as  you  shall  want  them,  and  march  at  their 
head,  wherever  you  direct."  There  are  many  such 
men  in  America. 

I  remember  to  have  heard,  that  Amherst  had 
told  the  King,  that  he  would  undertake  to  march 
five  thousand  men,  from  one  end  of  the  continent 
to  the  other,  notwithstanding  the  opposition  of  all 
the  inhabitants.  If  the  story  is  true,  his  successor 
seems  quite  of  a  contrary  opinion.  Indeed,  if  the 
former  took  up  that  idea  from  the  provincials,  he 
will  consider  an  army,  formed  out  of  the  dregs  of 
the  people,  as  a  very  different  thing  from  the  yeo 
men  of  the  country,  acting  voluntarily  in  the  im 
mediate  defence  of  their  liberty  and  property. 

I  enclose  a  newspaper,  to  show  the  temper  of 
the  people  of  Maryland,  as  a  specimen  of  that 
which  prevails  in  all  the  colonies.  In  short,  I  think 
you  may  venture  to  pronounce  that  America, 
though  most  sincerely  attached  to  England  and 
desirous  of  a  perpetual  union,  will,  by  force  only, 
be  brought  to  admit  of  domination  ;  and  they  may 


[21  ] 

learn  from  the  case  of  Corsica  what  force  to  apply 
to  America,  how  it  is  to  be  sent  here,  and  how  sup 
ported  when  it  is.  Indeed,  the  notion  is  ridiculous 
and  absurd. 

These  middle  colonies  were  suspected  of  great 
lukewarmness,  but  since  we  have  been  here,  a 
great  alteration  is  visible  in  that  matter. 

I  return  this  day  to  Carolina  with  Mrs.  Lynch. 
With  best  regards  to  Mrs.  Izard, 

I  am,  dear  sir,  &c. 


From  Edward  Rutkdge,  Esq.  to  Mr.  Izard. 
CHESTER,  October  29,  1774. 
MY  DEAR  SIR  : — 

A  moment's  leisure  gives  me 
an  opportunity  of  communicating  to  you  the  busi 
ness  we  have  transacted,  which  is  briefly  this. 
We  have  formed  a  bill  of  Rights,  by  which  we  in 
sist,  that  no  power  on  earth  has  a  right  to  inter 
meddle  with  our  internal  polity ;  but  that  the  Par- 


[22] 

liament  of  Great  Britain,  has,  of  necessity,  a  right 
to  regulate  trade. 

We  have  framed  a  list  of  grievances,  and  have 
formed  an  association,  not  to  import  any  goods, 
&c.,  either  from  Great  Britain  or  Ireland,  until  such 
grievances,  as  have  arisen  since  the  year  '63,  and 
are  enumerated  in  such  association,  shall  be  re 
dressed.  We  have  further  resolved,  that,  "  if  a 
repeal  of  those  laws,  by  which  we  are  oppressed, 
does  not  take  place,  anterior  to  the  10th  of  Septem 
ber  next,  we  will  not  export  any  commodity  to 
Great  Britain,  Ireland  or  the  West  Indies,  except 
rice  to  Europe. 

It  will  take  more  wisdom  than  I  am  master  of, 
to  reconcile  this  plan  to  reason ;  for,  upon  the  most 
mature  deliberation,  I  disapprove  of  it.  I  have  re 
peatedly  held  forth  my  testimony  against  it,  as 
inexpedient  and  weak.  I  do  not  mean  the  bill  of 
Rights  ;  that  I  think  well  of,  and  offered  it  every 
support  in  my  power :  for  I  hold  it  as  a  clear  truth, 
that  they  have  no  right  to  interfere  in  the  regula 
tion  of  our  internal  polity,  where  we  have  a  pow 
er  within  ourselves  that  is  equal  to  the  exigencies 
of  our  affairs  ;  it  being  as  ridiculous  to  suppose 
that  there  could  be  two  complete  legislatures,  as 
that  there  should  be  two  superior  beings. 

But  no  good  reason  can  be  urged  why  we  shoukl 


[23] 

be  satisfied  with  a  restoration  of  such  rights  only, 
as  have  been  violated  since  the  year  '63,  when  we 
have  as  many  others,  as  clear  and  indisputable, 
that  will  even  then  be  infringed.  Nor  can  any 
sufficient  reason  be  assigned,  why  a  non-exporta 
tion  should  not  be  put  on  foot  immediately,  or  a 
non-importation  delayed,  until  we  are  ripe  for  a 
non-exportation,  as,  I  suppose,  that  the  more  inter 
ested  the  people  of  Great  Britain  are  in  the  colonies, 
the  more  property  they  have  with  us,  the  more  desir 
ous  and  industrious  will  they  be  to  obtain  a  repeal  of 
the  oppressive  acts.  But  I  was  very  desirous  that 
both  of  them  should  take  place  at  an  early  day, 
and  think  a  few  months  would  have  put  everything 
to  rights  again.  But  to  make  the  matter  more 
absurd,  we  have  come  into  a  resolution  not  to  ex 
port  indigo.  This,  I  was  totally  against.  I  pro 
posed  to  stop  all  exportation — nothing  short  of 
that  would  satisfy  me.  I  saw  no  reason  why  the 
inhabitants  of  this,  and  the  neighboring  colonies, 
should  have  full  liberty  to  export  their  wheat  and 
flour  to  every  part  of  Europe,  and  that  we  should 
be  restricted  so  much  in  our  trade  ;  for  under  the 
statute  of  Charles  II.,  we  could  not  carry  rice  to 
any  part  of  the  world,  except  to  England  and 
Scotland.  It  is  true  that,  by  some  subsequent  acts, 
we  had  liberty  to  carry  it  to  other  parts,  but  these 


[  24] 

were  only  temporary  statutes ;  and  the  one  which 
permits  it  to  be  carried  to  the  south  of  CapeFinis- 
terre,  will  expire  with  the  present  session  of  Par 
liament.  Their  commodities,  not  being  enumera 
ted,  may  be  carried  to  any  part  of  the  globe. 

It  was  said,  if  they  were  in  an  advantageous 
situation,  why  not  allowed  the  use  of  it  ?  The 
answer  is  ready :  because  equality  is  the  basis  of 
public  virtue.  People  who  are  affected  but  in 
speculation,  and  submit  to  all  the  hardships  attend 
ing  it,  will  not  shut  up  their  ports,  while  their 
neighbors,  who  are  the  objects  of  ministerial  ven 
geance,  enjoy,  in  a  great  degree,  the  benefits  of 
commerce.  Nor  is  the  fact  true,  that  Great  Bri 
tain  will  not  be  distressed  by  withholding  our  trade 
to  other  parts  of  the  world,  for  the  wealth  which 
is  acquired  by  such  trade,  must  go  to  our  enemies. 
But  to  stop  the  exportation  of  indigo,  is  still  more 
foolish;  it  is  unequal,  too,  between  the  different 
parts  of  the  province.  St.  Helena,  is  not  well  af 
fected  ;  the  Georgians  are  disaffected.  How  easy 
will  it  be  for  the  people,  in  that  part  of  the  pro 
vince,  to  carry  their  commodity  to  that  market. 
Again :  if  they  give  up  the  planting  of  indigo,  what 
can  they  do  ?  They  can  plant  nothing  else  but 
provisions,  which  they  can  never  dispose  of,  as  the 
West  India  trade  will  be  at  an  end. 


[25  ] 

But  why  stop ;  does  it  pay  duty  ?  No.  It  re 
ceives  a  bounty ;  it  is  useful,  they  say,  in  dying. 
Cannot  these  things  be  procured  from  the  French  ? 
Yes.  But  if  they  could  not,  why  shall  we  distress 
our  own  people,  for  no  other  purpose,  than  to 
oblige  the  people  of  England  to  weave  white 
cloth,  instead  of  blue  ? 

I  had  much  more  to  say,  but  have  not  time. 
However,  this  I  must  add,  that,  if  the  acts  are  not 
repealed  before  May,  at  which  time  we  are  to 
have  a  new  Congress,  we  shall  certainly  go  much 
farther :  for,  submission  never  can,  nor  ever  shall 
take  place. 

Remember  me  to  Mrs.  Izard.  I  am  just  this 
moment  setting  out  for  Carolina.  God  bless  you ! 


From  James  Allen,  Esq.  to  Mr.  Izard. 

PHILADELPHIA,  October,  29,  1774. 
DEAR  IZARD  : — 

I  received  your  letter  dated  Paris, 
July  8,  and  plainly  discover  that  you  are  sick  of 
4 


[26] 

the  iniquity  of  the  present  times.  I  heartily  agree 
with  you,  that  profligacy  of  manners  has  swallow 
ed  up  all  ideas  of  liberty  amongst  the  people  of 
England.  The  case  is  widely  different  in  Amer 
ica,  where,  except  amongst  a  few  high-flyers,  the 
love  of  it  is  universal. 

The  situation  of  this  country  is  critical ;  and  a 
few  months  will  determine,  whether  we  are  to  en 
joy  the  rights  of  Englishmen,  or  be  involved  in  all 
the  horrors  of  a  civil  war.  For  no  proposition  can 
be  clearer,  than  that  nothing  but  a  military  force, 
and  a  powerful  one,  can  produce  an  acquiescence 
to  the  oppressive  measures  now  carrying  on  against 
us. 

I  cannot  pretend  to  give  you  a  detail  of  what  is 
transacting  in  America.  You  will  see  by  the  pa 
pers,  that  General  Gage  is  fortifying  the  causeway 
that  leads  into  the  town  of  Boston — the  only  ave 
nue  to  it,  the  rest  being  surrounded  by  the  bay. 
This  fortification  will  put  the  town  at  his  mercy, 
surrounded  as  it  is  by  the  shipping.  But  I  forget 
that  you  have  been  in  Boston,  and,  of  course,  are 
better  acquainted  with  its  situation  than  I  am. 

Frequent  applications  are  daily  made  to  the 
general,  to  dismantle  the  fortification ;  but  he  ex 
cuses  himself,  as  intending  it  only  as  a  defensive 
measure,  and  declares  that  he  has  no  views  of  any- 


[27] 

thing  offensive.  The  truth  is,  and  the  military  ac 
knowledge  it,  that  his  present  force,  though  con 
sisting  of  about  eight  regiments,  is  too  weak  to  re 
sist  the  inhabitants ;  and  he  is  sensible,  that  the 
first  blood  spilt  by  the  soldiery,  will  endanger  their, 
and  his  own  safety. 

You  may  well  think  that  this  is  a  time  of  great 
anxiety  and  expectation  with  us,  when  I  tell  you, 
that  yesterday  the  grand  continental  congress,  com 
posed  of  delegates  from  every  colony,  broke  up, 
after  a  session  of  two  months  in  this  city.  On  the 
deliberations  and  resolutions  of  that  body,  rests  the 
safety  of  all  America.  They  have  been  kept  a 
profound  secret,  and  were  published  to  the  world 
yesterday ;  and  I  have  the  inexpressible  pleasure 
to  inform  you,  that  they  have  conducted  them 
selves  with  unanimity,  wisdom  and  firmness. 

I  send,  by  this  opportunity,  the  printed  account 
of  their  proceedings,  to  your  friend,  Mr.  William 
Lee,  of  Tower-street,  with  my  request  to  forward 
it  to  you.  If  the  people  of  England  are  not  dead 
to  every  feeling  of  humanity  and  virtue,  it  must 
rouse  them.  It  is  not  only  their  own  cause, 
but  the  cause  of  human  nature ;  and,  to  attribute 
the  opposition  of  America  to  a  desire  of  indepen 
dency,  or  to  any  other  motive,  than  a  wish  to  en- 


[  28  1 

joy  English  constitutional  liberty,  is  diabolically 
wicked  and  false. 

It  is  wonderful  to  see  so  thorough  an  union  of 
all  America !  Not  one  single  colony,  but  has  em 
barked  itself  in  this  great  common  cause,  with  the 
utmost  alacrity.  That  union  will  make  us  irresisti 
ble,  and  Lord  North  will  ever  be  deemed  a  shal 
low  politician,  in  forming  this  indissoluble  connec 
tion.  " Divide  et  Impera"  is  the  true  English  pol 
icy.  Had  he  even  stopped  short  of  the  Quebec 
bill,  there  might  have  been  some  distant  prospect 
of  a  less  general  confederacy ;  but  that  open,  and 
avowed  design  of  subjugating  America,  has  alarm 
ed  the  most  inattentive,  and  given  us  but  one  mind. 
I  beg  to  offer  my  compliments  to  Mr.  Izard,  and 
Mrs.  Allen  adds  hers,  and 

I  am  very  sincerely,  &c., 

JAMES  ALLEN. 


[29] 


From  Mr,  hard,  to  Edward  Rutkdge,  Esq. 
ROME,  November  15,  1774. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  was,  a  few  days  ago,  favored  with 
a  letter  from  you,  full  of  private  and  public  busi 
ness. 

I  congratulate  you  on  being  appointed  one  of  the 
commissioners,  as  it  is  an  honorable  testimony  of 
the  good  opinion  your  countrymen  have  of  you. 
The  Congress,  I  dare  say,  will  have  done  every 
thing  that  could  be  done ;  but  my  knowledge  of 
the  King's  determined  inflexibility,  cuts  off  all  hope 
of  that  success  and  full  satisfaction,  which  ought 
to  crown  their  endeavors.  There  are  not  above 
ten  men  in  England,  who  are  not  tired  of  this  in 
famous  and  unnatural  contest. 

He  has,  by  a  species  of  cunning  peculiar  to  him 
self,  abolished  all  appearance  of  prerogative,  and 
substituted  the  much  more  dangerous  weapon  of 
intrigue.  This  was  very  little  understood  in  the 
last  century,  but  is  thoroughly  so  now.  I  look 
4* 


[30] 

upon  the  object  of  all  princes  to  be  the  same :  the 
acquisition  of  unlimited  power.  The  unhappy 
race  of  Stuart,  languish  here,  in  poverty  and  con 
tempt.  Their  ancestors  were  so  ill-advised,  as  to 
fight  with  the  slender  and  insufficient  armor  of 
prerogative.  In  England,  we  are  now  better  in 
structed.  Our  arms  are  made  of  more  impenetra 
ble  stuff,  and  even  the  heel  of  our  Achilles  is  per 
fectly  covered. 

You  mention  nothing  of  the  petitions,  which  I 
sent  you  and  Mr.  Lynch.  I  expected  that  they 
would  have  been  taken  notice  of,  and  approved  of, 
in  the  great  meeting  in  Charlestown.  I  think  they 
ought  to  have  been,  and  that  omission  was  very 
ill-judged.  The  consciousness  of  having  acted 
well,  is  not  always  a  sufficient  reward.  A  great 
deal  of  trouble  was  taken,  and  a  great  deal  of  ill- 
will  got,  in  England.  The  public  approbation  of 
their  countrymen,  would  have  been  ample  compen 
sation.  This,  they  had  a  right  to  expect,  but,  with 
which,  they  have  not  been  gratified.  This  neglect, 
will,  I  fear,  operate  against  any  future  application 
to  parliament  on  any  similar  occasion,  and  will  be 
looked  upon  as  a  disapprobation  of  the  measure. 

I  shall  say  very  little  to  you,  about  my  private 
affairs.  In  truth,  I  have  very  little  to  say  about 
them.  Mr.  Laurens  being  joined  with  you,  in  the 


[31  ] 

management  of  them,  will,  I  hope,  relieve  you  of 
a  great  deal  of  trouble. 

In  the  ensuing  troubles,  I  foresee  infinite  difficul 
ties  will  arise,  in  the  clothing  and  blanketing  of  our 
negroes.  You  will,  I  trust,  take  every  possible 
precaution  on  this  subject.  If  the  trade  is  to  be 
stopped,  cotton  should  be  planted  in  all  parts. 
This  will  produce  clothes,  but  I  do  not  know  how 
blankets  can  be  provided.  Difficulties  will  sharpen 
the  invention,  and  I  do  not  doubt,  but  that  some 
expedients  will  be  found  out.  Whatever  is  re 
solved  by  the  provinces,  will,  I  hope  to  God,  be 
faithfully  adhered  to  and  executed. 

The  breaking  of  the  last  non-importation  agree 
ment,  has  given  wonderful  confidence  to  our  ene 
mies.  •  Our  conduct  will  not,  I  hope,  justify  their 
opinion  of  us. 

I  hope  that  the  northern  tour  has  restored  Mrs. 
Rutledge's  health.  Pray,  offer  her  our  compli 
ments.  The  curiosities  of  this  country  have  af 
forded  us  a  great  deal  of  pleasure.  We  think  of 
being  in  London  next  May.  My  stay  in  England, 
after  that  time,  will  be  regulated  by  circumstances. 


[  32] 

From  George  Dempster,  Esq.  to  Mr.  Izard. 
DANNEKUR,  near  FORFAR,  N.  B.,  December  3, 1774. 
MY  DEAR  IZARD  : — 

I  would  have  answered  your 
last  kind  letter,  from  Switzerland,  had  I  not  been 
prevented  by  very  particular  business.  I  came 
down  to  Scotland,  with  the  intention  of  settling, 
and  had  scarcely  arrived,  when  the  dissolution  of 
Parliament  followed  hard  at  my  heels ;  and  my 
constituents  have  done  me  the  honor,  unanimously 
to  re-elect  me,  without  one  shilling  of  expense. 
By  this  means,  I  continue  still  a  member  of  our 
upright  legislature,  on  so  honorable  a  footing,  as 
to  more  than  over-pay  any  sacrifices  I  have  made, 
of  my  own  interests,  in  order  to  discharge  with 
fidelity  the  important  trust  reposed  in  me. 

I  shall  be  in  town,  single,  about  the  middle  of 
January ;  and  I  hope,  before  I  leave  it  for  the  sum 
mer,  your  excursion  will  be  terminated,  by  your 
safe  arrival  there  also.  The  pleasure  of  meeting 
you,  and  Mrs.  Izard  and  your  travelling  com 
panion,  Mr.  Lee,  will  be  a  very  great  one  to  me. 


[33] 

I  will  not  enter  on  American  affairs ;  the  pros 
pect  from  that  quarter  is  truly  melancholy,  nor  do 
I  yet  see  how  it  can  brighten.  The  ministry  are 
committed,  and  so  is  all  America.  Our  commerce 
and  their  liberties,  are  both  in  danger,  if  things  are 
pushed  to  extremity.  Yet,  which  will  recede? 
Where  is  the  common  and  unprejudiced  mediator  ? 
As  to  the  new  Parliament,  I  have  no  doubt  of  its 
succeeding  to  all  the  prejudices  and  frailties  of  its 
predecessor,  the  old  Parliament.  But  more  of 
these  things  when  we  meet. 

In  the  meantime,  let  me  express  my  wishes  that 
you,  Mrs.  Izard  and  Mr.  Lee,  have  reaped  all  the 
satisfaction  possible  from  your  charming  tour,  and 
have  enjoyed  a  competent  share  of  good  health 
and  spirits  to  relish  the  various  entertainments  that 
have  fallen  in  your  way. 

I  am  settled  in  quiet,  in  my  little  farm-house, 
where  I  shall  probably  spend  much  of  the  remain 
der  of  my  life.     Farewell,  my  dear  sir, 
Your  faithful  and  affectionate 
Friend,  and  humble  servant, 

GEORGE  DFMPSTER. 


[34] 

From  Thomas  Dea,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

LONDON,  December  19, 1774. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  had  the  pleasure  of  receiving  a  let 
ter  from  you,  dated  Paris,  which  I  immediately 
answered,  and  directed  to  you  at  Geneva,  as  you 
desired,  but  I  cannot  find,  by  yours,  that  my  letter 
ever  reached  you.  I  hope  I  shall  be  more  fortu 
nate  on  the  present  occasion. 

If  the  favor  I  might  find  at  St.  James's,  was  to 
depend  on  my  approval  of  the  present  measures, 
I  fancy  I  should  stand  but  a  poor  chance.  I  do, 
however,  confess,  that,  although  I  detest  the  thought 
of  oppressing  our  brethren  of  America,  I  do  equally 
wish  to  avoid  being  dupes  to  them. 

I  shall  be  glad  to  testify  my  esteem  and  regard 
for  you,  by  any  service  in  my  power,  to  render  you 
here ;  and,  with  Mrs.  Dea's  and  my  respects,  to 
Mrs.  Izard,  I  remain,  dear  sir, 

Your  very  affectionate 

Friend,  and  humble  servant, 

THOMAS  DEA. 


[  35] 

From  Arthur  Lee,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard  at  Rome. 
LONDON,  December,  27,  1774. 
MY  DEAR  FRIEND  : — 

Since  my  first,  I  wrote  you 

an  account  of  the  resolves  of  Congress.  Their  ad 
dresses  have  had  a  wonderful  effect  here.  The 
popular  voice  is  strong  for  us.  The  merchants 
are  moving,  and  the  ministry  conceding. 

The  Congress  have  sent  a  petition  to  the  King, 
and  nominates  seven  persons  to  present  it.  Mr. 
Burke,  Mr.  Wentworth  and  Mr.  Life,  excused 
themselves  from  undertaking  it,  and  Mr.  Gouth 
was  out  of  town.  There  remained  Mr.  Bollan, 
Dr.  Franklin  and  myself,  only,  to  act. 

Two  councils  were  held,  whether  it  should  be 
received.  The  first  was  divided — in  the  second, 
a  majority  determined  it  should  be  received  ;  and 
we  had  the  following  answer :  "  That  his  Majesty 
had  received  the  petition  very  graciously,  and,  for 
its  importance,  would  lay  it  before  his  two  Houses 
of  Parliament  as  soon  as  they  met."  They  are 
adjourned  for  the  holidays.  "  We  present  this  pe- 


[36] 

tition,"  say  they,  "  only  to  obtain  redress  of  griev 
ances,  and  relief  from  fears  and  jealousies  occa 
sioned  by  the  statutes  and  regulations,  adopted 
since  the  close  of  the  late  war,  for  raising  a  rev 
enue  in  America — extending  the  powers  of  courts 
of  admiralty  and  vice  admiralty — trying  persons 
in  Great  Britain,  for  offences  alleged  to  be  com 
mitted  in  America,  affecting  the  province  of  Mas 
sachusetts  bay — and  altering  the  government,  and 
extending  the  limits  of  Quebec ;  by  the  abolition 
of  which  system,  the  harmony  between  Great  Bri 
tain  and  her  colonies,  so  necessary  to  the  happi 
ness  of  both,  and  so  ardently  desired  by  the  latter, 
with  the  usual  intercourse,  will  be  immediately 
restored. 

"  In  the  magnanimity  and  justice  of  your  Majes 
ty  and  Parliament,  we  confide,  for  redress  of  our 
other  grievances." 

It  is  very  long,  manly  and  respectful.  I  went 
with  it  to  Lord  Chatham,  who  is  in  raptures  with 
this,  and  the  whole  of  the  proceedings  of  the  Con 
gress.  He  will  come  forth,  with  all  his  might,  for 
a  full  and  solemn  redress^ 

The  Rockinghams,  will,  I  think,  come  in ;  and 
we  shall  form  an  opposition,  which,  supported  by 
the  popular  voice  and  petitions  of  the  merchants, 
&c.,  will  be  irresistible. 


[37] 

We  are  working  to  bring  the  West  India  mer 
chants  and  planters  forward  ;  through  Mr.  Ellis,  I 
believe  it  will  be  done. 

The  ministry  are  disposed  to  give  some  relief, 
but  it  is  our  duty  to  insist  upon  a  total  compliance 
with  those  demands,  which,  being  made  with  great 
moderation,  cannot  be  diminished.  I  always 
thought,  that  the  unanimity  and  firmness  of  Amer 
ica,  in  so  just  a  cause,  would  effect  anything.  I 
am  now  convinced  of  it. 

I  go  down  to  Lord  Shelburne's,  in  a  few  days, 
and  from  thence  to  Bristol,  to  see  how  things  are 
circumstanced  there. 

Adieu. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  Thomas  Dea,  Esq. 

NAPLES,  January  17,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  :— 

I  am  just  favored  with  your  letter 
of  the  19th  December.  Your  other  letter  came 
safe  to  my  hands,  in  Geneva,  and  I  beg  pardon  for 

5 


[38] 

not  having  acknowledged  the  receipt  of  it  in  my 
last. 

I  thank  you  for  the  trouble  you  have  taken 
about  my  organ.  There  can  be  no  objection  to 
advertising  it. 

The  music,  in  this  country,  has  not  answered 
my  expectation.  The  performers  in  the  opera,  at 
London,  are  superior  to  those  at  Florence  and  Na 
ples.  There  was  no  opera  at  Turin,  when  I  was 
there,  and  the  inhabitants  of  Rome  are  too  devout 
to  suffer  any  in  the  holy  city.  With  regard  to  in 
strumental  music,  I  am  persuaded  that,  all  Italy 
united,  could  not  produce  such  a  concert  as  Bach's 
and  Abies.  And  now  for  a  little  politics. 

I  am  utterly  at  a  loss  to  know  what  you  mean, 
by  the  English  being  dupes  to  the  Americans.  I 
have  considered  and  revolved  the  word,  in  my 
mind,  fifty  times  ;  and  not  being  able  to  make  any 
thing  of  it,  I  had  recourse  to  a  dictionary,  without 
having  any  light  thrown  on  my  researches.  My 
lexicographical  friend  informs  me,  that,  to  dupe,  is 
to  trick,  to  deceive,  to  cheat.  I  am  incapable  of 
comprehending  how,  by  distortion,  or  the  most 
forced  construction,  anything  that  the  Americans 
have  done,  can  have  such  an  application  made 
to  it. 

The  last  address  of  the  Congress,  to  the  people 


[  39  ] 

of  England,  savors  so  little  of  deceit,  that  I  never 
read  plainer  language  in  my  life ;  and  the  actions 
of  the  inhabitants  of  all  America,  have  entirely 
corresponded  with  this  language.  I  can  most  so 
lemnly  vouch  for  the  truth  of  one  part  of  it,  which 
is,  that  they  look  upon  their  descent  from  English 
men,  and  their  connection  with  England,  as  their 
greatest  glory  and  honor.  Whether  they  are  deter 
mined,  or  no,  not  to  be  hewers  of  wood  and  draw 
ers  of  water,  for  anybody,  you  can  judge,  as  well 
as  I,  by  their  putting  their  militia  in  order,  and  re 
solving  to  submit  to  all  the  inconveniences  of  a 
non-importation,  a  non-exportation  an,d  a  non-con* 
sumption  agreement. 

Another  friend  tells  me,  that  he,  as  well  as  you, 
disapproves  of  the  measures  carrying  on  against 
America ;  but  the  offensive  acts  must  not  be  re 
pealed,  because  England  must  not  be  bullied. 

You  both  think  that  England  has  done  wrong, 
but  yet  she  must  not  be  bullied  nor  duped  into  do 
ing  what  is  right.  If  there  has  been  any  bullying, 
I  insist,  that  England,  who  was  wrong  in  the  first 
instance,  in  attempting  to  take  our  money  from  us 
without  our  consent,  and  in  persisting  to  do  it  after 
we  had  shown  how  humiliating  and  distressed  a 
situation  we  should  be  reduced  to,  if  it  was  exe 
cuted,  ought  to  be  looked  upon  as  the  bully.  If 


[40] 

there  has  been  any  duping,  the  Americans  were 
intended  to  be  the  dupes. 

Parliament  reduced  the  duty  from  a  shilling  a 
pound  on  tea,  paid  in  England,  to  threepence  a 
pound,  to  be  paid  in  America  ;  imagining,  that  we 
should  be  such  dupes,  or  children,  as  not  to  be  sen 
sible  of  the  trick. 

I  have  seen  that  the  French  are  slaves,  and  I 
now  see  that  there  is  no  freedom  in  any  state  in 
Italy ;  and  I  know  that  the  reason  of  this,  is,  be- 
because  the  people  have  no  check  over  the  prince, 
by  withholding  the  supplies  when  they  do  not  think 
proper  to  grant  them.  You  know  that,  in  Portu 
gal,  the  same  cause  has  produced  the  same  effect, 
and  of  these  things,  the  Americans  are  all  sensi 
ble.  If  there  has  been  anything  wrong  done  in 
America,  I  am  sorry  for  it.  Redress  their  griev 
ances,  and  they  themselves  will  assist  you  in  pun 
ishing  the  guilty,  and  procuring  indemnification  for 
any  injury  that  may  have  been  sustained.  But  it 
is  in  vain  to  hope  that,  while  they  feel  the  cLotress 
naturally  arising  from  the  intolerable  injuries  that 
have  been  offered  them,  they  should  fall  prostrate 
before  those  men  who  have  been  the  authors  of 
them. 

They  have  no  reason  to  expect  honor,  justice, 
or  humanity  from  them.  The  question  lies  within 


[41  ] 

a  very  narrow  compass.  If  Parliament  can  take 
what  money  she  pleases  from  us,  without  our  con 
sent,  the  most  ignorant  cannot  believe  that  we  shall 
be  anything  but  slaves ;  that  is,  we  shall  have  a 
bare  sufficiency  for  our  existence  left  us,  and  the 
rest  will  be  deemed  superfluity,  and  much  better 
employed  on  this  side  of  the  water  than  the  other. 

I  have  the  greatest  opinion  of  your  humanity, 
and  of  the  goodness  of  your  heart.  You  cannot 
wish  to  see  us  so  miserable  and  despicable  a  set  of 
people,  as  our  enemies  would  make  us. 

I  have  extended  this  little  politics,  to  an  uncon 
scionable  length  ;  as  it  is  the  thing  nearest  my 
heart,  you  will,  I  hope,  excuse  me. 

Pray  give  our  compliments  to  Mrs.  Dea,  and 
thank  her  for  her  frequent  visits  to  our  little  folks, 
at  Bromton  and  Hampstead.  We  shall  return  to 
Rome,  in  two  or  three  weeks,  and  intend  staying 
there  till  the  middle  of  March,  when  we  shall  set 
out  for  Venice,  and  so  to  England,  through  Ger 
many. 

I  am,  dear  sir,  affectionately, 
Your  friend  and 
Humble  servant, 

RA.  IZARD, 
5* 


[42  ] 

From  Mr.  hard  to  George  Dempster,  Esq. 

NAPLES,  January  21,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  am  at  last  favored  with  a  letter 
from  you.  The  St.  James's  Chronicle  is  entitled  to 
my  thanks  for  being  more  explicit  than  you  are ; 
and  you  will  find  that  I  did  not  wait  for  your  in 
formation,  but  availed  myself  of  the  newspaper 
intelligence,  to  offer  you  my  congratulations  on 
your  marriage. 

The  dissolution  of  Parliament,  drew  my  fellow- 
traveller,  Mr.  Lee,  from  me,  and  I  took  that  oppor 
tunity  of  writing  to  you.  I  congratulate  you,  also, 
upon  your  re-election,  and  on  the  unanimous  and 
honorable  testimony  you  have  received  of  the  ap 
probation  of  your  constituents. 

We  have  received  great  pleasure  from  our  tour, 
and  we  have  been  perfectly  well  ever  since  we 
left  England.  The  curious  things  and  places,  we 
have  seen,  are  well  worth  all  the  trouble  of  the 
journey.  I  have  met  with  nothing  that  seems  so 
extraordinary  to  me  as  the  neighborhood  of  this 


[43] 

place.  It  is  almost  incredible,  that  two  such  towns 
as  Pompeii  and  Herculaneum,  should  have  lain 
buried  under  ground,  undiscovered,  for  near  one 
thousand  seven  hundred  years.  Had  such  an 
event  happened  in  a  country  of  barbarians,  it 
would  seem  less  extraordinary ;  but  the  eruptions 
of  Mount  Vesuvius,  which  occasioned  the  destruc 
tion  of  these  two  cities,  happened  in  the  most 
flourishing  period  of  the  Roman  empire. 

The  beautiful  pieces  of  antiquity  in  bronze,  that 
have  been  found  in  them,  surpasses  all  imagination. 
If  such  an  accident  were  to  happen  to  two  cities, 
in  any  part  of  the  British  dominions,  attempts  would 
surely  be  made  to  uncover  them  in  less  than  sev 
enteen  days. 

The  melancholy  prospects  of  American  politics, 
has  thrown  a  continual  cloud  on  all  my  amuse 
ments,  and  has  lessened  them  exceedingly.  The 
resolutions  of  the  Congress,  will  occasion  my  leav 
ing  Italy  sooner  than  I  wish.  I  shall  endeavor  to 
get  to  England  as  early  as  possible  in  the  spring, 
and  prepare  for  my  departure  to  my  native  coun 
try,  unless  an  accommodation  takes  place,  which  I 
cannot  flatter  myself  so  much  as  to  expect. 

I  shall  pass  through  part  of  Germany  in  about 
six  weeks  from  this  time,  which  will  certainly  not 
prove  agreeable  at  that  season.  I  think,  however, 


[44] 

it  will  be  less  disagreeable  than  crossing  the  Alps, 
at  Mount  Cenis,  or  going  by  water  to  Marseilles. 

I  shall  be  obliged  to  you,  if  you  will  take  the 
trouble  of  writing  me  your  opinion  on  the  state  of 
American  affairs,  within  a  week  after  you  receive 
this  letter,  and  direct  to  me  at  Strasbourgh. 

Mrs.  Izard  desires  her  compliments  to  you.  We 
are  both  sorry  to  find  that  you  intend  being  a 
bachelor  this  year  in  London. 

I  am,  my  dear  sir, 

Yours,  &c. 

RA.  IZARD. 


To  Thomas  Lynch,  Esq.  from  Mr.  Izard. 

ROME,  February  14,  1774. 
DEAR  SIR: — 

If  you  have  been  so  good  as  to  write 
to  me  from  Philadelphia,  I  have  not  been  so  for 
tunate  as  to  receive  your  letter.  The  proceedings 
of  the  Congress  have,  however,  been  sent  to  me, 


[45] 

and  I  think  that  the  thanks  of  every  man  in  the 
British  empire  are  due  to  the  members  of  it ;  you 
will,  therefore,  I  desire,  as  one  of  that  respectable 
body,  accept  of  mine. 

That  their  endeavors  may  meet  with  success,  I 
have  stronger  reasons  to  wish  than  expect.  Noth 
ing  less  than  a  total  redress  will  give  entire  satis 
faction  ;  and  I  very  much  fear,  that  the  pride  and 
insolence  of  both  Houses  of  Parliament,  together 
with  the  fixed  and  noted  hatred  of  the  King  to 
America,  will  prove  insurmountable  obstacles. 
Nothing  will  be  done  upon  a  broad  and  substantial 
ground. 

If  the  shedding  of  blood  be  not  determined  on, 
some  absurd  palliations  will  be  adopted,  although 
their  inefficacy  has  been  so  fully  proved. 

The  inhabitants  of  Boston  are  under  infinite  ob 
ligations  to  the  administration,  for  the  union  which 
they  have  occasioned  in  their  favor.  If  the  object 
was  to  punish  Boston,  folly  itself  could  not  have 
suggested  a  more  ineffectual  way  of  doing  it. 

I  hope  that  nothing  has  been  resolved  on  in  the 
Congress,  but  what  can  be  carried  into  execution. 
The  non-exportation  of  indigo  from  Carolina,  will, 
I  fear,  occasion  great  distress.  I  do  not  know  if 
rice  is  to  be  sent  to  England  and  all  other  parts  of 
Europe,  or  only  to  those  parts  which  are  to  the 


[40] 

southward  of  Cape  Finisterre.  If  the  latter,  the 
produce  will  so  far  exceed  the  consumption,  that 
it  will  put  the  virtue  of  my  countrymen  to  the  trial. 
The  object  to  be  obtained  by  the  temporary  self- 
denial  is  so  great,  that  I  hope  we  shall  not  be 
wanting  in  our  exertions.  The  good  consequen- 
QCS,  however,  are  so  obvious,  that  if  it  can  possibly 
be  submitted  to,  it  ought  to  be. 

The  inconveniences  arising  from  the  non-impor 
tation  of  blankets  and  negro  cloth  into  Carolina, 
have,  I  hope,  been  fully  attended  to,  and  obviated. 
Some  relief  ought,  I  think,  to  have  been  proposed 
for  the  merchants  and  traders  in  America. 

At  present,  the  great  burthen  seems  to  be  laid 
on  them,  and  the  distress  they  must  necessarily 
suffer,  if  the  contest  should  continue  long,  may  be 
the  means  of  the  resolutions  of  Congress  not  being 
adhered  to.  If  America  should  trifle  with  those 
of  the  present,  as  she  did  with  those  of  the  last 
Congress,  she  will  be  the  contempt  of  all  Europe. 

I  have,  during  my  tour,  had  frequent  opportuni 
ties  of  knowing  the  sentiments  of  people  not  inter 
ested  in  the  disputes,  and,  therefore,  probably  un 
prejudiced  ;  and  I  can  assure  you,  that  I  have  met 
with  many  well  wishers  to  our  cause.  Those  who 
understood  the  nature  of  the  contest  best,  were 
always  most  decided  in  our  favor. 


[47] 

The  Swedish  Ambassador,  of  Paris,  told  me  he 
was  glad  to  find  that  there  was  still  a  part  of  the 
world  where  tyranny  was  not  triumphant,  and 
where  the  people  dared,  virtuously,  to  oppose  its 
progress.  This  was  a  great  deal  from  the  repre 
sentative  of  a  tyrant,  who,  within  a  few  years,  has 
violated  the  laws  and  overturned  the  constitution 
of  his  country  which  he  had  sworn  to  maintain. 

I  find  that  the  merchants  trading  to  North 
America  and  the  West  Indies,  are  petitioning  Par 
liament.  Their  applications  are  ill-timed  and  will 
prove  ineffectual.  Had  they  joined  us  in  our  peti 
tion,  we  had  assurances  that  the  corporation  of 
London  would  immediately  have  followed  the  ex 
ample.  This  would  have  put  all  the  manufactur 
ing  towns  in  motion,  and  some  good  might  have 
been  done.  The  truth  is,  they  are,  in  general, 
puffed  up  with  pride  and  unmindful  of  the  interest 
of  their  employers. 

The  tea,  which  has  occasioned  so  much  trouble, 
would  never  have  been  sent  to  America,  had  not 
many  of  these  gentlemen  offered  themselves  as  se 
curity  for  it.  The  India  company,  by  requiring 
security,  showed  that  they  knew  how  obnoxious  a 
measure  it  was  ;  but  the  merchants,  who  ought  to 
be  the  natural  guardians  of  the  interests  of  Ameri- 


[48] 

ca,  submitted  to  the  infamy  of  becoming  parties  in 
the  attempt  against  us. 

If  the  gentlemen  of  America  do  not  show  a  sense 
of  this  injury,  those  who  have  offered  it,  will  be 
encouraged  to  a  repetition  of  it. 
I  am,  dear  sir, 

Affectionately  yours, 

RA.  IZARD. 


From  Arthur  Lee,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

LONDON,  February  19,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  received  yours  from  Naples  a  few 
days  ago,  and  am  glad  you  are  returning. 

The  flattering  prospect  arising  from  the  gracious 
reception  of  the  petition  from  the  general  Congress, 
is  entirely  vanished.  It  was,  indeed,  laid  before 
the  two  Houses,  but  in  the  most  contemptuous  man 
ner  undistinguished  among  a  multitude  of  official 
papers.  We  petitioned  to  be  heard  in  support  of 


[49  ] 

it  in  vain.  Both  Houses  have,  by  a  great  majority, 
addressed  his  Majesty  to  carry  the  laws  into  exe 
cution,  promising  to  support  him  with  their  lives 
and  fortunes,  and  declaring  the  Massachusetts  bay 
in  rebellion,  and  other  Colonies  abetting  it.  The 
merchants  petitioned  to  be  heard  before  this  fatal 
measure  was  adopted,  but  they  were  refused.  A 
bill  is  now  before  the  House  to  stop  the  fishery  and 
commerce  of  the  New  England  provinces,  till  they 
submit.  Men  for  the  land  and  sea  service  are 
voted.  The  army  under  Gage,  is  to  be  reinforced 
to  the  number  of  ten  thousand  infantry,  one  thou 
sand  marines,  and  one  regiment  of  light  dragoons. 
The  Generals  Howe,  Clinton  and  Burgoyne,  are 
appointed  for  the  service.  The  latter  is  talked  of 
as  Governor  of  New- York.  This  army  will  not 
be  ready  to  take  the  field  until  June.  On  one  side, 
every  part  is  firm  and  actually  in  arms,  but  New- 
York.  Of  its  desertion,  the  ministry  talk  with  en 
tire  confidence.  They  ground  their  measures  upon 
it.  By  being  in  possession  of  that,  they  think  to 
stop  all  communication  between  the  north  and 
south,  so  as  to  contend  with  half  at  a  time.  They 
are  throwing  out  lures  to  that  colony  of  particular 
favor,  and  exemption  from  taxation,  which  they 
are  assured  from  them  will  effect  their  purpose. 
The  New  England  governments  are  raising  and 
6 


[  50] 

training  men;  they  have  seized  all  the  artillery 
and  powder  they  could  find,  amounting  to  a  large 
train  of  the  first.  Maryland  has  voted  both  men 
and  money.  Virginia  has  raised  a  standing  army 
of  six  thousand.  South  Carolina  has  voted  fifty 
thousand  pounds,  being  too  distant  to  contribute 
men. 

The  resolves  of  the  Congress  are  everywhere 
obeyed,  New- York  not  excepted  ;  and,  from  what 
I  can  learn,  we  have  reason  to  hope  the  ministerial 
party  there  will  be  disappointed.  We  seem  to  be 
upon  the  rough  edge  of  battle.  Here,  they^  are 
violent  and  wavering;  there,  they  are  deliberate 
and  determined.  If  New- York  is  firm,  I  have  not 
a  single  fear  of  success. 

The  merchants,  manufacturers,  and  the  public 
here,  are  greatly  alarmed,  and,  I  am  persuaded, 
that  this  country  cannot  hold  it  out  one  year. 
When  the  sufferings  of  the  people  make  them  act, 
without  consulting  the  contemptible  Rockingham 
party,  they  will  have  irresistible  weight.  At  pres 
ent,  that  party,  as  usual,  suppresses  every  effort, 
because  they  eternally  flatter  themselves  they  are 
on  the  eve  of  being  called  into  place.  A  popular 
opposition  would  have  arrested  these  measures ; 
but  the  die  is  now  cast.  Lord  Chatham  offered  a 
bill  to  the  House  for  reconciling  the  two  countries 


[  51  ] 

by  repealing  all  the  acts  complained  of,  and  prom 
ising  not  to  interfere  again,  when  the  provincial 
legislatures  were  competent,  upon  our  acknowledg 
ing  the  supremacy  of  the  Parliament ;  but  it  was 
thrown  out  at  the  first  reading. 
My  best  respects  to  Mrs.  Izard. 

Adieu. 

A.  LEE. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  Edward  Rutkdge,  Esq. 
ROME,  March  2,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  have  seen  the  proceedings  of  the 
Congress,  and  think,  with  all  deference  to  Lord 
North,  that  the  members  of  it,  are  entitled  to  the 
thanks  of  the  public.  If  the  measures,  which  are  so 
wisely  recommended,  are  adopted  and  executed,  we 
may  still  be  a  happy  people.  Unanimity,  and  a  great 
degree  of  public  virtue,  are  absolutely  necessary. 
America  has  so  many  enemies  within  her  own  bo- 


[  52  ] 

som,  and  there  are  so  many  people  driven  to  dis 
tress  by  the  discontinuance  of  trade,  that  I  cannot 
help  having  strong  doubts  and  fears. 

I  wish  that  some  plan  could  be  suggested  to 
prevent  so  great  a  share  of  the  burthen  from  falling 
on  the  persons  concerned  in  trade.  This  was  the 
rock  that  proved  fatal  to  the  endeavors  of  the  last 
Congress,  and,  I  very  much  fear  a  repetition  of 
the  same  effects.  The  tour  that  I  have  made,  since 
I  left  England,  has  given  me  a  great  deal  of  pleas 
ure.  The  miserable  situation  of  the  lower  order 
of  people  in  most  parts  of  Europe,  is  undoubtedly 
owing  to  their  having  no  check  over  the  persons 
who  dispose  of  their  property.  Many  members 
of  both  Houses  of  Parliament,  have  made  the  tour 
of  Europe.  They  cannot  be  ignorant  of  this  truth, 
and  they  ought  to  have  humanity  enough  not  to 
wish  to  plunge  us  into  the  same  unhappy  state. 
The  happiest  people  I  ever  saw  in  my  life,  are  the 
Swiss.  They  live  in  a  delightful  country,  and  pay 
no  taxes.  If  they  should  ever  be  so  imprudent  as 
to  change  their  form  of  government  into  a  monar 
chy,  they  would  wo  fully  feel  the  difference. 

Mr.  Laurens  will,  I  hope,  have  relieved  you  of  a 
great  deal  of  trouble,  that  you  have  had,  on  my  ac 
count.  I  have  not  yet  heard  of  his  arrival,  but  ex 
pect  to  do  bo  on  my  way  to  England.  I  shall 


[53  ] 

leave  Rome  in  a  few  days  ;  shall  pass  through 
Venice  and  Germany,  and  expect  to  be  in  London 
in  about  two  months.  Probably,  before  the  expira 
tion  of  a  twelvemonth,  I  may  have  the  pleasure  of 
meeting  you  in  America. 

Mrs.  Izard  joins  me  in  compliments  to  Mrs.  Rut- 
ledge.  As  I  hear  the  Congress  are  to  meet  in 
Philadelphia,  the  beginning  of  May,  I  shall  address 
this  letter  to  you  there,  as  I  did  one  to  Mr.  Lynch, 
which  I  wrote  about  a  fortnight  ago.  Pray  give  my 
compliments  to  him,  and  the  rest  of  your  colleagues. 
If  you  go  to  New- York,  and  will  give  my  love  to 
Mrs.  De  Lancey's  family,  they,  and  my  son,  will  be 
very  glad  to  see  you. 


From  William  Lee,  Esq.  to  Mr.  Izard. 

LONDON,  March  4, 1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  received  your  favor  from  Naples 
and  forwarded  your  letter  to  Philadelphia. 
6* 


[54] 

You  are  quite  mistaken  in  supposing  anything 
conciliatory  towards  America,  is  intended.  The 
ministers,  with  their  leader,  are  violently  blowing 
the  coals,  into  a  flame,  that  will  lay  waste  the  whole 
British  empire.  From  the  destruction  of  so  vast  a 
body,  new  empires  and  new  systems  of  govern 
ment  must  arise.  In  short,  a  civil  war  is  inevitable. 

Large  numbers  of  troops  and  ships  of  war,  are 
now  preparing  to  go  to  Boston  and  New- York.  A 
bill  will  finally  pass  the  House  of  Commons  on 
Monday,  to  stop  all  the  New  England  fisheries,  to 
prevent  those  four  governments  from  having  a 
commercial  intercourse  with  the  other  provinces 
and  colonies,  or  any  part  of  the  world,  but  Great 
Britain,  Ireland  and  the  British  West  Indies. 

In  a  few  days,  another  bill  is  to  be  brought  into 
the  House  of  Commons,  extending  the  same  re 
strictions  to  all  the  other  colonies. 

America  seems  firm  in  preparing  for  the  last 
event.  The  Assembly  of  Jamaica  has  petitioned 
the  King,  in  stronger  and  j--!ainer  terms,  than  the 
Continental  Congress. 

Best  compliments  to  yourself  and  Mrs.  Izard. 
I  am,  dear  sir, 

Sincerely  yours, 

WILLIAM  LEE. 


C  55] 

* 

From  George  Dempster,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 
DUNNECHEN,  near  FORFAR,  N.  B.,  March  5,  1775. 
MY  DEAR  SIR  : — 

Mr.  Counsellor  Lee  did  not 
send  me  the  letter,  you  was  so  kind  as  to  write  me 
on  my  marriage,  and  for  which,  accept  my  thanks, 
although,  as  yet,  I  have  never  seen  it.  Indeed,  it 
is  no  wonder  he  would  naturally  expect  me  in 
town,  where,  I  believe,  I  shall  not  be  this  winter. 

I  have  the  more  readily  determined  on  remain 
ing,  as  I  had  discharged  my  duty  on  the  only 
cause  of  consequence,  I  mean  that  of  America,  last 
year,  very  conscientiously  and  very  fruitlessly. 

I  cannot  enter  at  large  into  that  subject  in  a  let 
ter,  while  you  are  abroad.  Every  letter  is  opened 
at  the  post-office.  The  subject  is  now  rendered 
particularly  delicate,  by  some  late  proceedings  in 
the  House  of  Commons. 

Let  me  know  when  you  come  to  England,  for  I 
shall  then  be  happy  to  communicate  my  real  and 
genuine  sentiments  to  you,  because  I  believe  they 
are  singular,  and  because  I  believe  you  will  do  me 


[56] 

the  justice  to  believe  they  come  from  the  heart  of 
a  sincere  man. 

I  heartly  regret  those  unhappy  differences,  for 
many  public  reasons.  My  affection  and  regard 
for  you,  makes  me  regret  them  on  your  individual 
account. 

I  thank  you  for  your  congratulations,  upon  the 
honorable  manner  in  which  I  have  been  re-elected. 
No  circumstance  of  my  life  ever  affected  me  more. 
I  do  assure  you,  I  came  down,  resolved,  in  case 
of  the  slightest  opposition,  to  engage  in  no  contest, 
but  to  spend  the  remainder  of  my  life  in  contented — 
really  contented  retirement,  and  being  fully  satis 
fied  that  neither  riches  nor  grandeur  add  to  our 
happiness.  And  now  that  I  am  sent  back  again 
to  Parliament,  I  only  return,  the  more  attached  to 
the  privileges  of  the  people,  and  to  independency 
of  thinking  and  voting. 

Farewell,  my  dear  friend  ;  remember  me  very 
affectionately  to  Mrs.  Izard,  and  believe  me  to  re 
main, 

Very  affectionately  yours,  while 

GEORGE  DEMPSTER. 

RALPH  IZARD,  Esq. 


L  57  J 

From  Henry  Cruger,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

WESTMINSTER,  March  21, 1775. 
MY  DEAR  SIR  : — 

About  a  month  ago,  I  had  the  pleasure  of  ad 
dressing  you,  and  thanking  you  for^your  acceptable 
letter  of  the  9th  November,  and  kind  congratula 
tions  on  the  success  of  my  election.  All  I  then  pro 
phesied,  respecting  poor  America,  is  come  to  pass. 

The  ministry  are  determined  to  exert  every 
nerve  to  make  America  buckle  to.  They  will 
never  stop  till  they  humble  Boston,  Connecticut, 
Rhode  Island,  Virginia,  South  Carolina,  and  those 
other  devoted  places.  They  have  vowed  to  half 
ruin  this  country,  rather  than  submit  to  the  resolves 
of  the  Congress ;  they  consider  them  as  highly 
affrontive  to  the  dignity  of  the  Legislature  of  this 
country,  which  "  they  will  maintain  with  their  lives 
and  fortunes,  to  be  supreme  over  all  his  Majesty's 
dominions."  I  believe  they  extremely  regret,  being 
so  deeply  involved,  in  a  dispute  with  all  America, 
especially,  as  the  people  of  this  country,  I  mean 
the  merchants,  take  so  warm  a  part  against  the 


L58] 

administration.  I  am  fully  persuaded  if  they  were 
once  out  of  this  scrape,  they  never  would  attempt 
to  tax  America  again  ;  but  since  they  are  in  it,  and 
have  been  at  so  much  expense  and  trouble,  you 
may  rely  on  it,  dear  sir,  they  will  not  relax  in  their 
measures  against  those  provinces  which  they 
deem  the  most  violent,  until  they  have  brought 
them  to  "  reason,"  as  they  call  it,  or  in  other  words, 
to  a  due  sense  of  the  power  of  Great  Britain. 

Administration  have  settled  a  plan  of  govern 
ment  for  the  four  New  England  colonies  to  take 
away  their  charters,  &c.  It  is  pleasing  to  the 
King,  which  gives  stability,  and  permanency  to  the 
present  ministry. 

It  is  the  fixed  plan  of  government,  to  prove  a 
sore  scourge  to  many  of  the  provinces ;  unless  they 
recede  and  make  concessions,  they  will  restrict 
their  trades  in  a  most  severe  manner.  In  Virginia, 
they  will  emancipate  all  their  negroes,  and  protect 
them  after  they  have  done  it. 

Governor  Tryon  is  going  out  again  ;  he  talks  of 
sailing  in  June. 

I  cannot  help  imagining  but  that  the  violent  and 
severe  measures  presented  by  the  administration, 
will  so  overwhelm  the  Americans  writh  distress 
and  calamity  of  all  sorts,  that  for  the  present, 
they  will  be  obliged  to  submit. 


[  59] 

Lord  North  has  at  length  condescended  to  give 
up  the  idea  of  taxing  them  ;  he  and  the  clever  fel 
lows  about  him,  proved  the  resolution  entered  into 
by  the  House  of  Commons,  for  that  purpose,  is  quite 
pacific  and  conciliatory ;  the  opposition  proved  it  to 
be  diametrically  contrary,  and  that  it  is  the  most 
tyrannical  proposition  the  House  ever  adopted. 

Both  sides  were  so  sophistical,  the  event  only, 
can  now  satisfy  me.  Such  various  constructions 
and  explanations,  are  so  constantly  put  upon  every 
thing  that  is  offered,  that  I  confess,  I  can  no  longer 
judge  which  is  right  or  which  is  wrong.  I  am 
more  and  more  convinced,  that  human  reason  may 
be  made  to  answer  every  purpose,  and  that  if  we 
regard  the  subtlety  of  argument  alone,  we  shall 
possibly  end  in  scepticism.  Let  me  only  add,  that, 
in  my  opinion,  the  political  gloom  deepens  fast  in 
that  devoted  country,  and  that  we  are  verging  to 
a  dreadful  crisis.  The  flattering  prospect  of  soon 
conciliating  the  unnatural  breach,  is  vanished,  and 
it  is  much  to  be  feared  that  some  events  are  not 
far  distant,  which  will  render  this  one  of  the  most 
important  eras  in  the  history  of  our  native  country. 
These,  my  friend,  may  seem,  perhaps,  chimerical 
apprehensions,  and  to  have  their  foundation  more 
in  timidity  and  interest  than  in  reason  ;  it  is,  how 
ever,  my  present  opinion. 


[60] 

The  leaders,  on  both  sides,  are  too  vindictive, 
and  seem  rather  to  console  themselves  at  the  dis 
tresses  which  will  be  occasioned,  than  the  benefits 
which  will  be  derived. 

The  desire  for  liberty  and  the  fascinating  charms 
of  freedom,  have,  on  the  one  hand,  kindled  a  zeal 
a  little  too  warm — the  pride  of  government,  and 
and  a  too  refined  sense  of  the  dignity  of  Parliament, 
have,  on  the  other,  given  birth  to  measures  neither 
consistent  with  justice  nor  policy  ;  hence  the 
source  of  this  ruinous  controversy.  The  breach 
daily  grows  wider,  and  God  only  knows,  what 
events  are  to  terminate  the  unhappy  contest. 

I  forbear  to  enlarge  for  two  reasons  ;  first,  your 
discernment  and  knowledge  of  the  subject,  renders 
it  unnecessary  ;  secondly,  it  may  be  prudent  to  be 
reserved,  lest,  at  so  great  a  distance,  my  letters 
may  never  reach  you. 

When  I  heard  from  America,  all  friends  were 
in  statu  quo.  I  shall  be  happy  to  see  you  safe  in 
old  England. 

My  best  respects  and  good  wishes  will  ever  at 
tend  you  and  Mrs.  Izard,  and  all  that  belongs  to 
you,  for  I  am  most  truly, 

Your  affectionate  friend,  and 

Humble  servant, 

RA.  IZARD,  Esq.  HENRY  CRUGER. 


[61   ] 

From  Colonel  Mercer  to  Mr.  hard. 

LONDON,  March  24,  1775. 
DEAR  IZARD  : — 

On  my  return  from  Hampstead, 
last  night,  I  received  your  letter  of  the  3d.  I  have 
written  a  penny- post  letter  to  William  Lee,  with 
the  paragraph  in  which  he  was  mentioned. 

Politics  are  running  on  in  the  same  dangerous 
course  they  have  been  for  a  long  time. 

Mr.  Burke  moved  for  some  resolutions,  on  Wed 
nesday,  to  bring  about  a  reconciliation  with  the 
colonies,  which,  according  to  custom,  were  reject 
ed.  The  numbers  for  rejecting,  were  two  hundred 
and  seventy-eight ;  for  receiving  them,  seventy- 
eight.  Everything  on  this  side  the  water,  seems 
as  violent  and  hostile  as  possible,  and  letters  from 
the  other  side,  say  it  is  impossible  there  can  be 
greater  unanimity  and  firmness,  than  still  prevails 
there  against  all  the  steps  Parliament  have  or 
mean  to  take,  to  enforce  their  edicts. 

The  bill  for  restraining  the  trade,  &c.  of  the 
colonies,  I  mentioned  to  you  in  my  last,  viz. :  New 
7 


[62] 

Hampshire,  Massachusetts,  Rhode  Island,  Connec 
ticut,  New-Jersey,  Pennsylvania,  Maryland,  Vir 
ginia  and  South  Carolina,  received  the  royal  assent 
this  day.  My  letter,  I  recollect,  is  gone  to  Paris, 
therefore,  I  must  repeat  the  intention  and  letter  of 
the  bill,  which  is,  to  restrain  all  their  colonies 
from  trading  to  any  part  of  the  world,  (or  with 
each  other,)  except  to  Great  Britain,  and  to  pre 
vent  their  fishing  on  the  banks  of  Newfoundland, 
or  a  league  from  the  shore.  Most  just  and  equi 
table  ! 

I  am,  dear  Izard, 

Your  sincere  friend,  &c. 

GEO.  MERCER. 


From  George  Mercer,  Esq.  to  Mr.  Izard. 
CURZON-STREET,  LONDON,  March  28,  1775. 
DEAR  IZARD  : — 

I  wrote  you  on  Friday  last,  and 
should  not  trouble  you  again  so  soon,  was  it  not 


[  63  ] 

to  repeat  to  you  the  agreeable  news  my  last  con 
veyed,  of  the  perfect  health,  good  spirits,  &c.  of 
our  little  friends  at  Hampstead,  whom  I  have  seen 
to-day. 

Politics  are  much  in  the  same  state  as  when  I 
last  wrote,  except  some  later  assurances  of  the 
unanimity  and  firmness  of  the  Americans,  to  oppose 
force  to  force.  The  Provincial  Congress  of  the 
Massachusetts  on  the  15th  February,  resolved, 
unanimously,  "  That  the  great  law  of  self-preserva 
tion,  calls  upon  the  inhabitants  of  this  province, 
immediately  to  prepare  against  every  attempt  that 
may  be  made  to  attack  them  by  surprise,  and  it  is 
upon  serious  deliberation,  that  they  spare  neither 
time,  pains  or  expense,  at  so  critical  a  juncture,  in 
perfecting  themselves  forthwith  in  military  disci 
pline,  and  that  all  encouragement  be  given  to  such 
persons  as  are  skilled  in  the  manufactory  of  fire 
arms  and  bayonets,  diligently  to  apply  themselves 
thereto,  for  supplying  such  of  the  inhabitants  as 
are  deficient." 

Notwithstanding  the  resolutions  of  the  New- 
York  Assembly  against  those  of  the  Continental 
Congress,  a  ship  loaded  with  dry  goods,  &c.  was 
not  permitted  to  land  a  single  article,  nor  would  a 
Mr.  Buchanan,  to  whom  she  was  consigned,  un 
dertake  any  part  of  the  agency,  even  in  giving 


L  64  ] 

orders,  or  the  least  assistance  for  her  future  desti 
nation.  She  went  from  Glasgow  and  entered  New- 
York  harbor  under  convoy  of  a  man-of-war,  but 
she  was  forced  to  depart  in  three  days,  and  the 
man-of-war  supplied  her  with  necessaries  for  her 
return,  as  the  inhabitants  of  New- York  would  not 
sell  a  single  article  to  her. 

Doctor   Franklin   is  returned   to   Philadelphia, 
where,  I  presume,  he  will  not  speak  very  favorably 

of  Messrs.  Wed e  and  associates. 

My  best  wishes  attend  Mrs.  Izard  and  yourself. 
I  am,  dear  Izard, 

Your  sincere  friend,  and 

Humble  servant, 

GEO.  MERCER. 

P.  S.  Sayre  forwarded  your  letters  to  Philadel 
phia  with  some  of  his  own. 


[  65] 

From  Mr.  hard  to  Arthur  Lee,  Esq. 

STRASBOURG,  April  23,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  have  just  seen,  in  a  foreign  paper, 
the  King's  answer  to  the  city  remonstrance. 

He  is  satisfied  and  full  of  confidence  in  the  wis 
dom  of  his  Parliament.  That  Parliament  which 
he  so  much  esteems,  is  now  plunging  him  into  dif 
ficulties,  which,  I  fear,  may  some  years  hence, 
prove  fatal  to  his  family.  Fatal  they  must  prove  to 
the  greatest  part  of  his  subjects  in  Europe  and 
America,  very  soon. 

The  miseries  of  a  civil  war,  I  fear,  are  inevitable. 
Lord  North's  conciliatory  plan,  seems  totally  to 
have  vanished. 

It  did  not  appear  to  me  to  be  substantial ;  but, 
if  it  had  been  effected  with  an  honest  intention,  it 
might  have  led  to  something  which  might  have 
been  so.  Whether  the  plan  was  produced  by  fear, 
or  deceit,  I  know  not,  but  really  believe,  that  every 
good  consequence  that  might  have  been  produced, 
7* 


[66] 

has  been  destroyed  by  the  Assembly  (I  will  not 
say  the  people)  of  New- York. 

I  am  overwhelmed  with  astonishment  that  there 
should  be  found  in  America,  eleven  men  so  totally 
lost  to  every  sense  of  their  duty.  They  have  done 
that  which  it  is  impossible  for  them  to  retrieve, 
though  they  should  be  awakened  by  the  sense  of 
honor,  or  the  fear  of  infamy. 

If  I  am  not  mistaken,  the  Assembly  is  dissolved, 
of  course,  this  year.  The  people  will,  I  hope, 
make  those  gentlemen  sensible  of  the  shameful  and 
wicked  part  they  have  acted.  I  received  your  let 
ter  at  Augsburgh,  and  immediately  wrote  to  you. 
The  contents  concerning  the  Rockinghams,  gave 
me  a  great  deal  of  uneasiness.  You  must  be  sen 
sible  of  the  danger  of  a  div  ision.  For  God's  sake, 
exert  yourself  to  prevent  it.  If  the  rays  of  opposi 
tion  could  be  gathered  into  a  focus,  the  enemies  of 
our  country  might  feel  them ;  dispersed,  they  can 
not  possibly  avail  anything.  I  shall  leave  this,  to 
morrow,  for  Nancy,  in  Lorraine,  and  expect  to  be 
at  Paris  the  first  of  May. 

I  shall  expect  to  be  favored  with  a  letter  from 
you  there. 


[  67] 

From  Arthur  Lee,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

LONDON,  April  23,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

By  your  letter  of  the  llth  of  this 
month,  you  seem  to  be  as  well  informed  of  the 
political  movements,  both  here  and  in  America,  as 
if  you  were  with  us.  The  last  restraining  bill 
which  unites  all  the  colonies,  New- York  and  North 
Carolina  excepted,  in  one  common  calamity,  it  is 
generally  understood,  has  put  a  period  to  the  Par 
liamentary  campaign  against  us  for  this  session. 
Carolina,  was  excepted,  because  they  had  no  intel 
ligence  from  the  Governor  of  that  province.  The 
reason  of  the  exception  with  regard  to  New- York, 
you  know  too  well.  We  are  informed  that  the 
Assembly  there,  has,  by  a  majority  of  five  out  of 
twenty-five,  refused  their  concurrence  with  the 
Continental  Congress — that  the  leading  men  are 
using  every  means  to  induce  the  body  of  the  peo 
ple  to  countenance  their  defection.  The  inhabi 
tants,  however,  of  the  city,  have  obliged  vessels 
to  return,  according  to  the  general  resolution,  and 


[68] 

have  elected  deputies  for  a  Provincial  Congress,  in 
order  to  send  deputies  to  Philadelphia.  We  are 
assured  that  the  great  majority  of  the  people  are 
adverse  to  the  party  in  the  Assembly,  and  that  all 
their  endeavors  to  disunite  will  be  ineffectual. 

It  is  generally  understood  here  that  actual  mo 
ney,  as  well  as  large  promises,  have  been  applied, 
to  procure  the  majority  in  the  Assembly.  We 
are  assured  the  place  of  the  King's  chaplain,  is  to 
be  given  to  Dr.  C.,  with  lucrative  appointments. 
He  certainly  deserves  it,  if  industry  in  the  worst  of 
causes  can  be  deserving,  for  he  has  written  a  num 
ber  of  pamphlets,  and  filled  Rivington's  paper  with 
continual  forgeries,  to  deceive  the  people  into  the 
purposes  of  the  administration. 

That  the  probable  and  promised  defection  of 
New- York,  encouraged  the  ministry  to  proceed  to 
the  extremities,  which  must,  I  think,  inevitably  end 
in  blood,  is  indubitable.  Infinite  are  the  calamities 
they  have  to  answer  for,  who  have  been  agents  in 
this  business.  But  the  die  is  thrown,  and  we  must 
stand  the  hazard  of  the  cast.  There  are  some 
hostile  appearances  both  in  Spain  and  France, 
which  gives  no  little  uneasiness  to  the  cabinet. 
The  troops  are  not  yet  sailed  from  Ireland  for 
America,  and  if  these  appearances  continue,  they 
probably  will  be  countermanded.  At  all  events, 


[69  ] 

the  general  Congress  will  have  met,  will  know  of 
the  determination  of  reinforcing,  and  have  taken 
their  resolution  of  attacking  General  Gage,  if  it  be 
advisable,  before  he  can  be  reinforced.  If  the 
army  now  there  should  be  defeated,  the  ministry 
must  submit.  Yet  I  am  of  opinion  they  will  not 
attack  him,  because  they  mean  to  act  on  the  defen 
sive,  and  think  that,  entrenched  as  he  is,  his  present 
army  is  stronger  than  it  will  be  when  augmented, 
and  he  attempts  to  march  into  the  country.  There 
is  a  silence  in  the  New-England  provinces,  which 
argues  an  approaching  storm.  New  Jersey,  Penn 
sylvania,  Maryland,  Virginia,  Carolina  and  Geor 
gia,  are  united  and  firm. 

Maryland  and  Virginia  are  making  the  most 
serious  military  preparations.  The  frontier  militia 
men,  in  Virginia,  have  unanimously  published  their 
determination  to  fight  if  it  be  necessary.  I  have 
great  reliance  upon  their  superiority  in  wood 
fighting. 

The  ministry,  however,  rely  more  on  gold  than 
iron.  They  have,  therefore,  dispatched  their  emis 
saries  of  corruption  to  New-York  and  Philadelphia. 
Everything  depends  on  the  wisdom,  firmness  and 
unanimity  of  the  May  Congress,  at  which  Dr. 
Franklin  will  assist,  he  having  sailed  a  month  since 


[70] 

for  Philadelphia,  with  every  profession  and  every 
incentive  to  do  right. 

We  have  carried  up  to  the  throne  a  strong  peti 
tion  and  remonstrance  from  the  common  hall.  It 
gave  great  offence  to  somebody,  and  was  answer 
ed  ungraciously.  With  regard  to  opposition,  noth 
ing  but  a  storm  will  unite  them,  and  then  their 
union  will  be  unnecessary. 

Adieu. 

ARTHUR  LEE. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  George  Mercer,  Esq. 

STRASBOURG,  April  23,  1775. 
DEAR  MERCER  : — 

I  have  to  thank  you  for  four 
letters  that  I  received  on  my  arrival  here  yesterday. 
The  continual  accounts  you  have  been  so  good 
as  to  give  me  of  the  welfare  and  comfortable  situa 
tion  of  the  little  folks,  have  tended  greatly  to  alle 
viate  my  afflictions. 
At  the  same  time  that  I  lament  the  wicked  and 


[71] 

cruel  measures  that  are  adopted,  I  cannot  help  be 
ing  astonished  at  the  folly  of  them.  The  perni 
cious  plans  of  government,  for  these  ten  years  past, 
have  been,  by  the  wise  conduct  of  America,  ren 
dered  abortive.  This  has  excited  indignation  and 
revenge,  which  is  the  only  foundation  of  their 
measures,  and  the  only  stimulus  for  the  execution 
of  them. 

As  soon  as  I  heard  of  the  dissolution  of  Parlia 
ment,  I  had  no  doubts  about  the  King's  intention. 
The  blood  shed  in  America,  may,  perhaps,  not 
effect  him ;  but  I  will  venture  to  prophesy  that  his 
son  or  his  grandson,  will  have  cause  to  curse  the 
memory  of  his  counsellors. 

I  am  glad  to  hear  that  Mr.  Howard's  family 
have  escaped  so  well.  When  a  man  goes  into  an 
old  house,  he  may,  with  some  reason,  expect  to 
have  it  tumble  over  his  head ;  but  to  have  been 
killed  by  the  fall  of  one  not  more  than  six  years 
old,  would  have  been  hard  indeed.  What  does 
Gowing  think  of  the  disaster  ?  Perhaps  he  con 
soles  himself  with  thinking  that  he  has  only  follow 
ed  the  example  of  his  superiors  in  taking  care  of 
his  own  income,  without  thinking  of  those  whom  it 
was  his  duty  to  preserve  from  injury.  He  may 
justly  say  that  his  fabric  has  lasted  six  years, 
whereas,  if  the  one  intended  for  the  Americans  is 


[72] 

suffered  to  be  built,  it  will  crush  them  in  half  the 
time. 

When  you  see  Colonel  Skinner,  pray  give  Mrs. 
Izard's  and  my  compliments  to  him,  and  thank 
him  for  his  note  at  the  end  of  your  letter. 

I  received,  at  Rome,  a  letter  from  Oliver,  who 
was  then  at  the  Cape  of  Good  Hope.  He  had 
been  there  above  a  twelmonth,  first  lieutenant  on 
board  the  Admiral's  ship.  If  he  is  not  fortunate 
enough  to  get  a  ship  before  his  arrival  in  England, 
I  fear  he  will  be  long  without  one. 

Mrs.  Izard's  compliments.  If  Sayre,  or  Lee,  have 
any  letters  for  me,  they  will  be  so  good  as  to  send 
them  to  Paris  chez  Mr.  Bousie. 

Pray  send  me  the  names  of  the  ten  honest  As 
semblymen  of  New- York. 
I  am,  dear  Mercer, 

Your  affectionate  friend,  and 

Humble  servant, 

RA.  IZARD. 


[73] 

From  George  Dempster,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 
DUNNECHEN,  April  30,  1775. 
MY  DEAR  SIB  : — 

Your  favor,  enclosing  the  bill 
from  Naples,  came  safe  to  hand,  as  has  yours  of 
the  30th  ult.  from  Venice.     Sir  Thomas,  since  that, 
has  consented  to  renew  the  transaction  till  March 
'76,  making  out  the  two  years  originally  proposed. 

Make  yourself  easy,  therefore,  on  that  head. 
We  shall  meet  often,  and  long  before  then.  I 
have  no  apprehensions  now,  as  we  have  plenty  of 
time  to  take  measures  for  satisfying  our  testy 
creditor. 

I  often  thank  God,  I  have  no  money  to  lend,  lest 
it  should  make  me  cross  and  brutal  to  the  rest  of 
mankind. 

I  most  sincerely  lament  the  threatening  appear 
ance  of  things  beyond  the  Atlantic.  Like  you,  I 
once  hoped  the  storm  would  blow  over,  and  like 
you,  I  now  fear  it  thickens  again.  I  know  not  if 
I  am  so  fortunate  as  to  agree  with  you  in  another 
opinion.  I  think  the  Americans  and  their  friends 
8 


[74] 

to  blame,  for  not  making  use  of  the  opening  Lord 
North  gave  them  this  winter. 

A  ministerial  declaration  that  it  is  not  expe 
dient  to  tax  America,  was  a  great  concession  from 
men  who  had  talked  so  different  a  language.  Had 
I  been  in  town,  I  am  afraid  I  should  have  differed 
from  all  my  friends,  closed  in  with  the  idea,  and 
seconded  an  address  to  the  King  to  instruct  his 
Governors  to  apply  for  a  subsidy  by  way  of  requi 
sition. 

This  would  have  substituted  negotiation  in  the 
room  of  war  ;  it  would  have  slackened  the  arma 
ments,"  and  at  last  ended  in  leaving  America  just 
where  we  found  her  before  the  unlucky  Stamp  Act, 
and  there  she  would  have  remained  forever. 

It  is  needless  to  enquire  to  what  motive  this 
change  of  sentiment  in  Lord  North  is  to  be  imput 
ed,  whether  to  principle  or  fear  of  losing  his  place. 
The  effects  of  it  might  have  been  most  salutary. 

I  find  a  rural  and  retired  life,  much  the  best  suit 
ed  to  my  disposition.  I  have  led  a  life  so  full  of 
tranquillity  and  contentment,  that  I  think  with  hor 
ror  of  quitting  my  plough  to  resume  my  political 
labors  next  winter,  which,  however,  I  shall  certain 
ly  do,  in  return  for  the  very  honorable  manner  in 
which  my  constituents  imposed  that  burthen  upon 
me. 


[75] 

Mrs.  Dempster  returns  her  thanks  and  compli 
ments  to  you  and  Mrs.  Izard,  and  I  remain, 
Very  sincerely,  my  dear  sir, 

Your  faithful  and  affection  friend, 

GEORGE  DEMPSTER. 


From  Mr.  Izard  to  Edward  Rutkdge,  Esq. 

LONDON,  May  25, 1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  wrote  to  you  and  Mr.  Lynch, 
from  Rome,  and  directed  the  letters  to  Philadel 
phia. 

The  post,  from  Italy  to  England,  is  very  uncer 
tain,  and  if  letters  pass  safely,  the  gentlemen  at  the 
post  office  very  often  choose  to  keep  possession  of 
them,  if  the  contents  do  not  please  them.  Every 
letter,  I  am  assured,  undergoes  a  strict  examina 
tion. 

The  measures  which  have  been  adopted  by  Par 
liament,  are  so  infamous,  that  I  am  astonished  at 


[  76  ] 

finding  the  nation  so  little  alarmed  at  the  conse 
uences  which  may  be  produced  by  them. 

Stocks  rise,  and  the  people  here  seem  perfectly 
satisfied,  and  apprehensive  of  nothing. 

If  there  proves  to  be  as  much  virtue  in  the  peo 
ple  of  America,  as  there  was  wisdom  in  the  Con 
gress,  the  gentlemen,  in  this  country,  may  be 
brought  to  their  senses.  At  present,  they  seem  be 
numbed,  and  absolutely  in  a  state  of  stupefaction. 

If  there  is  any  spirit  in  the  inhabitants  of  Massa 
chusetts  bay,  Lord  Sandwich's  speech  must  bring 
it  forth.  I  shall  be  very  glad  if  they  can  avoid 
fighting,  but  if  that  is  impossible,  I  hope  to  God 
they  may  not  give  the  King  cause  to  add  contempt 
to  the  hatred  which  he  has  for  them. 

People  seem  to  think  that  this  unhappy  dispute 
will  soon  be  amicably  settled.  I  have  never  heard 
any  good  reason  offered  in  support  of  that  opinion. 
Lord  North's  proposal  of  desisting  in  future  from 
'axing  those  provinces,  who  will  tax  themselves  to 
the  approbation  of  Parliament,  is  too  absurd  to 
give  satisfaction  to  anybody. 

If  you  are  to  go  on  in  taxing  yourselves  till  you 

please  Parliament,  it  would  occasion  less  delay, 

and  in  every  respect  be  better  for  them  to  name 

•  le  sum,  and  leave  you  the   empty  and  ignoble 

rivilege  of  raising  it  in  your  own  way. 


[  77  ] 

The  King  is  determined  never  to  treat  with  the 
Congress,  which  convinces  me,  that  nothing  hon 
est  is  intended.  They  are  the  true  representatives 
of  the  people,  and  in  every  respect  have  shown 
themselves  worthy  of  confidence. 

Mr.  Laurens,  has,  I  hope,  been  of  service  to 
you  in  the  management  of  my  affairs.  I  shall  be 
very  glad  to  hear  of  their  turning  out  tolerably 
well,  as  I  have  for  many  years  been  used  to  noth 
ing  but  disappointments. 

When  I  sent  over  the  answer  to  Sir  E.  Leigh's 
libel,  I  informed  you  and  Mr.  Lynch,  what  I 
thought  ought  to  be  done.  You  wrote  me  that 
Mr.  Lynch  and  you,  would  take  care  and  do  what 
was  proper.  Mr.  Laurens  tells  me,  that  neither 
of  you  have  said  a  word  to  him  on  the  subject. 
He  has  advanced  some  money  in  this  affair,  and  it 
will  not  be  very  proper  if  he  is  suffered  to  lose  it, 
I  Vemain  sincerely, 

Your  friend, 

RA,  IZARD. 


8* 


t  '8  1 

From  Mr.  hard  to  George  Dempster,  Esq. 

LONDON,  May  31,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  have  been  several  days  in  Lon 
don,  and  have  received  your  favor  ,of  the  30th 
April,  which  you  directed  to  the  care  of  my  friend 
Mercer. 

Your  letter,  which  I  received  at  Strasbourg,  in 
forms  me  that  you  have  some  singular  opinions  to 
nmunicate  to  me.  I  shall  be  very  glad  to  re 
ceive  them,  and  shall  certainly  consider  them  with 
le  greatest  attention.  As  we  are  very  apt  to 

icur  with  those  we  love,  it  may  not  be  very  dif- 

ult  to  make  a  proselyte  of  me. 

If,   indeed,   you  were   to    insinuate    that   you 

>ught  the  measures  of  government  the  wisest 
and  best,  and  that  they  were  adopted  upon  princi 
ples  of  honor  and  justice,  I  should  prove  a  little  in- 

i;dulous.     Those  would  be  opinions,  so  singular, 

it  you  would  not  have  one  man  in  the  whole 

kish  empire  to  agree  with  you. 

You  think  that  if  you  had  been  in  London,  'you 


[79  ] 

would  have  closed  in  with  Lord  North's  proposi 
tion.  The  arguments  which  you  would  have  heard, 
would  soon  have  con  viced  you  of  the  inefficiency  of 
it.  The  nation,  for  some  time  past,  seems  to  have 
been  benumbed.  The  merchants,  notwithstanding 
the  situation  of  affairs  in  America,  dreadfully  alarm 
ing  as  they  are,  sit  perfectly  satisfied  and  content 
ed  ;  and  the  stocks,  which  have  always  been  look 
ed  upon  as  the  political  barometer,  have  risen  as 
if  no  storm  was  to  be  apprehended. 

Whenever  I  have  expressed  my  fears  of  blood 
shed,  I  have  been  answered  with  a  significant 
shrug,  that  all  matters  would  be  soon  amicably 
settled,  and  that  my  fears  were  groundless. 

It  seems  that  Lord  Sandwich,  and  Colonel  Grant, 
have  had  eloquence  enough  to  prevail  upon  all 
ranks  of  people  to  believe  that  the  inhabitants  of 
North  America,  from  one  end  of  it  to  the  other, 
are  a  set  of  base,  abject  and  wretched  cowards, 
and  that  accommodation  would  be  gladly  accept 
ed  without  redress. 

I  know  that  this  is  false,  and  I  fear  that  this 
country  will  know  it  when  the  knowledge  will 
have  been  acquired  too  late  to  be  of  any  service. 

I  suppose  you  have  a  newspaper  sent  you  into 
Scotland.  For  fear  you  should  not,  I  send  you  by 
this  night's  post,  the  London  Chronicle,  by  which 


[80  ] 

you  will  find  that  the  campaign  is  opened  in  Amer 
ica.  I  suppose  the  account  in  the  paper  may  not 
be  strictly  true. 

The  captain,  by  whom  the  news  comes,  differs 
from  it  in  some  instances,  but  you  may  depend 
upon  it,  there  has  been  an  engagement. 

Government  has  received  no  accounts  yet,  but 
the  ministry  are  exceedingly  embarrassed. 

In  the  first  emotions,  they  talk  of  sending  over 
the  guards  and  more  troops.  If  this  is  done,  they 
will  only  plunge  deeper  in  the  mischief. 

The  Parliament  should  immediately  be  called, 
and  the  oppressive  acts  be  repealed.  This  would 
do  them  more  good  than  all  ihe  soldiers  this  coun 
try  can  send.  Every  man  of  humanity  must 
lament  this  fatal  event,  which  I  have  long  thought 
inevitable.  I  rejoice,  moreover,  at  finding  that  my 
countrymen  have  not  only  sense  enough  to  make 
their  rights  known,  but  merit  enough  to  defend 
them. 

My  youngest  daughter  is  indisposed,  and  Dr. 

Huck  advises  me  to  bathe  her  in  the  sea ;  and  we 

shall  take  her  to  Weymouth  in  about  three  weeks. 

Mrs.  Izard  joins  in  compliments  to  Mrs.  Dempster. 

I  am,  my  dear  sir, 

Sincerely  yours, 

RA.  IZARD. 


[81   ] 

From  Mr.  hard  to  Thomas  Lynch,  Esq. 

LONDON,  June  7,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  arrived  in  London  about  a  fort 
night  ago,  and  found  your  letter  from  Philadelphia 
of  a  very  old  date,  at  Mr.  Stead's. 

From  Rome,  I  wrote  to  you  my  thanks,  as  a 
member  of  the  Congress  whose  proceedings,  in 
almost  every  respect,  I  highly  approved  of.  What 
ever  trifling  objections  the  Assembly  of  New- 
York  might  have  had  to  some  of  them,  it  was 
most  infamous  to  withhold  their  approbation  of 
them.  Their  conduct  gave  spirit  to  our  enemies, 
who  were  fully  persuaded,  that  by  breaking  one 
link  of  the  chain,  the  exertions  of  America  would 
be  rendered  ineffectual.  They  will,  I  hope,  find 
themselves  mistaken. 

You  desire  me  to  consider  whether  the  proceed 
ings  of  the  Congress  ought  not  to  be  translated  into 
French  and  Dutch.  I  should  have  taken  care  of 
that  long  ago,  had  it  been  necessary ;  but  the  Prin 
ters  on  the  Continent  have  spared  me  the  trouble. 


[82] 

The  French,  Dutch,  German  and  Italian  newspa 
pers,  have,  to  my  knowledge,  been  filled  with 
them,  and  I  have  been  assured,  that  the  Danish, 
Sweedish  and  Russian  papers,  have  been  employ 
ed  in  the  same  way. 

You  say  you  will  want  some  coarse  woollens. 
The  Burmuda  vessels,  I  should  suppose,  could 
very  easily  supply  you.  If  they  could  not,  you 
can  furnish  yourself  plentifully,  with  cotton  blankets 
and  cloths  for  the  negroes. 

The  best  blankets  that  I  ever  saw,  are  made  of 
cotton.  The  sooner  you  set  up  your  manufactories, 
the  better.  You  will,  I  believe,  stand  in  need  of 
them. 

We  have  lately  received  here,  a  confused  ac 
count  of  a  skirmish  at  Boston,  which  proved  disad 
vantageous  to  the  regulars.  Government  has  no 
dispatches  yet,  and  they  affect  to  disbelieve  the 
report. 

The  villainy  and  infamy  of  the  miscreants  here, 
who  call  themselves  the  King's  friends,  is  unbound 
ed.  They  imagine  that  there  is  no  more  virtue  in 
America  than  they  are  possessed  of  themselves,  and 
confidently  assert,  that  the  Americans  would  never 
trouble  the  world  with  their  grievances,  if  the  pub 
lications  here,  and  the  speeches  of  the  factious 
members  of  Parliament,  did  not  put  such  nonsense 


[83] 

into  their  heads.  One  would  imagine  that  the 
perusal  of  the  proceedings  of  the  Congress  would 
silence  these  people. 

I  am  sorry  to  find  that  gentlemen  have  not  been 
permitted  to  land  such  things  as  are  necessary  for 
them  on  their  arrival  in  America.  This,  appears 
to  me,  calculated  to  distress  your  friends  without 
a  possibility  of  affecting  the  trade.  There  can 
be  no  good  reason  why  I  should  be  obliged, 
when  I  leave  this  country,  to  sell  my  coach, 
plate,  and  household  furniture,  at  a  very  great 
loss.  I  beg  that  you  will  give  me  your  opinion 
on  this  subject. 

The  skirmish  in  Massachusetts'  bay,  will  pro 
duce  disagreeable  consequences.  The  King  is  in 
flexible,  and  a  great  deal  of  blood  will  be  shed. 
Four  people  in  five,  in  this  kingdom,  are  against 
America.  They  imagine  that  in  proportion  as  we 
are  obliged  to  pay,  they  will  be  exonerated.  If 
the  King  were  to  succeed,  I  am  sure  they  would 
find  themselves  mistaken.  Tyranny  is  as  little 
apt  to  be  satisfied  as  avarice. 

I  am  not  determined  how  long  I  shall  stay  in 
England,  nor  whether  I  shall  go  to  Carolina  or 
New- York.  If  the  climates  were  equally  good,  I 
should  soon  decide. 


[84] 

Mrs.  Izard  joins  in  offering  compliments  to  all 
your  family. 

I  am,  dear  sir, 
Your  sincere  friend, 

RA.  IZARD. 


From  George  Dempster,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 
DUNNECHEN,  near  FORFAR,  June  7, 1775. 
My  DEAR  SIR: — 

I  have  your  favor  of  the  31st 
May,  and  I  congratulate  you  and  Mrs.  Izard  on 
your  safe  return  to  England,  and  on  finding  your 
dear  little  ones  well. 

I  most  heartily  wish  that  the  state  of  the  empire 
had  left  you  more  leisure  to  enjoy  yourselves 
abroad,  and  your  friends  and  family  at  home. 

We  are  all  suffering  by  its  distraction,  but  I  feel 
most  for  the  natives  of  America,  whose  country  is 
on  the  point  of  becoming  the  theatre  of  a  civil  war 
with  all  its  horrors  and  desolation. 


[85] 

The  scene,  I  see,  is  opened.  It  matters  little 
whether  the  printed  accounts  can  be  depended  upon 
or  no.  Blood  has  been  spilled.  The  first  blow  is 
given.  What  but  war  can  ensue,  considering  the 
tempers  on  each  side  of  the  Atlantic. 

I  despair  of  making  you  a  convert  to  the  opinion 
I  entertain,  mentioned  in  my  last,  and  do  most  sin 
cerely  regret,  that  the  friends  of  America  did  not 
close  in  with  Lord  North's  proposition.  If  they 
had,  it  would  have  been  followed,  in  my  poor 
opinion,  with  a  surcease  of  warlike  preparations. 
The  obnoxious  acts  would  gradually  have  been  re 
pealed,  or  remained  waste  paper  in  the  statute 
books,  and  the  dignity  of  the  mother  country  pre 
served,  as  well  as  the  supreme  authority  of  Parlia 
ment,  which  never  would  have  been  called  in  ques 
tion  but  for  the  late  indiscreet  use  that  has  bbeen 
made  of  it.  Had  I  been  in  town,  I  should  hardly 
have  joined  with  Lord  North  singly,  but  the  eve 
ning  before  the  motion,  I  would  have  run  over  the 
whole  town  to  persuade  opposition,  and  Ameri 
cans,  and  yourself  among  the  number,  to  hear  the 
resolution  in  silence  and  without  comment,  and 
to  adjourn  the  House,  and  to  take  one  full  week 
to  deliberate  whether  it  was  to  be  received  or 
rejected. 

My  opinion  remains  the  same  now  as  at  first, 
9 


[86] 

that  there  would  have  been  much  political  wisdom 
in  embracing  Lord  North's  proposition.  It  coin 
cides,  in  some  measure,  with  Lord  Chatham  and 
Lord  Camden's. 

I  say  political  wisdom,  for  a  political  contest 
always  implies  two  parties,  of  views  and  senti 
ments  diametrically  opposite,  in  which  case,  it  is 
generally  impossible  to  go  straight  forward.  The 
motion  of  a  state,  like  those  of  a  ship,  in  contrary 
currents  and  winds,  must  be  compounded  of  both, 
and  an  able  pilot  will  never  keep  the  ship  directly 
in  the  rush  or  eye  of  either.  But  this  is  a  wide 
field,  fitter  for  discourse  than  a  letter.  If  the  Par 
liament  should  sit  soon,  I  shall  soon  have  an  oppor 
tunity  of  chatting  it  over  with  you,  which  I  should 
be  the  happier  to  do,  that  I  observe  none  of  the 
friends  to  America,  nor  none  of  those  I  esteem,  in 
Parliament,  as  men  of  more  wisdom  and  as  much 
firmness  as  myself,  are  of  this  opinion. 

I  am  so  apt  to  be  dogmatical  in  my  opinions, 
and  to  fly  off  at  a  tangent  in  consequence  of  them, 
that,  to  say  truth,  I  am  sick  of  politics,  as  men 
generally  are  of  a  business  for  which  they  are  not 
over  well  qualified.  I  came  down  to  Scotland, 
almost  in  hopes  my  constituents  would  have  dis 
missed  me  from  their  service,  meaning  to  pass  the 
rest  of  my  life  in  easy,  rural  occupations,  having 


[87  ] 

enjoyed  more  true  happiness  and  content,  since  the 
26th  of  September  last,  (my  wedding  day,)  than 
ever  I  knew  before.  In  my  retreat,  it  would  have 
been  an  eternal  source  of  satisfaction,  that  I  have, 
all  along,  endeavored  to  discharge  my  duty  to  my 
country,  disinterestedly,  and  that  I  have  early  and 
invariably  dissuaded  Parliament  from  pursuing 
those  measures,  relative  to  America,  which  are 
like  to  end  either  in  the  loss,  or  what  is  still  more 
to  be  regretted,  the  destruction  of  that  country. 
May  Heaven  avert,  if  it  is  not  too  late,  either 
calamity. 

You  observe  the  insensibility  of  the  merchants 
and  all  ranks  of  people.  This  does  not  surprise 
me.  Be  assured,  the  measures  pursued  by  gov 
ernment  towards  America,  are  not  generally  un 
popular. 

In  Scotland,  (myself,  and  a  very  few  more  ex- 
cepted,)  the  whole  body  of  the  gentry,  and  of  the 
independent  and  enlightened  class  of  people,  are,  to 
a  man,  on  the  side  of  the  administration.  When 
you  see  never  more  than  eighty  in  Parliament  op 
posing  the  ministry,  you  may  depend  upon  it,  the 
measure  is  not  thought  a  bad  one  ;  for  corruption 
does  not  reach  so  deep.  Many  members  support 
the  minister  who  are  not  supported  by  him. 

In  his  party,  you  will  find  most  of  the  country 


[88] 

members.  This  is  the  true  barometer  of  the  higher 
orders  in  England.  There  is  a  principle  against 
America,  as  well  as  for  her,  insomuch,  that  it  would 
not  be  easy  for  a  ministry,  more  favorable  to  her, 
to  bring  the  bulk  of  the  House  over  to  their 
opinion. 

It  is  the  clear  conviction  of  this  truth,  that  would 
have  made  me  the  more  eager  to  have  concurred 
in  Lord  North's  proposition.  But  I  find  myself 
again  exceeding  the  bounds  of  a  letter.  If  you 
have  leisure,  at  Weymouth,  I  shall  be  happy,  now 
and  then,  to  hear  from  you.  An  honest  man,  with 
whom  I  chance  to  differ  in  opinion,  is  a  favorite 
companion  and  correspondent  with  me,  for  that 
reason, 

I  remain,  dear  sir, 

Your  affectionate  friend, 

GEORGE  DEMPSTER. 
RA.  IZARP,  Esq. 


[89] 

From  Mr.  hard,  to  Isaac  Low,  Esq. 

LONDON,  June  12,  1775. 
SIR: — 

As  I  am  informed  you  are  chairman  of 
the  committee  at  New- York,  I  take  the  liberty  of 
addressing  this  letter  to  you. 

I  approve  highly  of  the  proceedings  in  general, 
of  the  Continental  Congress,  and  am  firmly  of 
opinion,  that  if  the  virtue  and  fortitude  of  America, 
be  equal  to  the  wisdom  of  her  delegates,  the  con 
test  will  soon  be  determined  in  our  favor. 

The  salvation  of  the  colonies,  depends  upon  the 
strict  adherence  to  the  measures  recommended  by 
the  Congress. 

The  reason  of  my  troubling  you  with  this,  is  to 
request  the  favor  of  you,  to  inform  me  of  the  sen 
timents  of  the  committee  respecting  the  non-impor 
tation  resolution.  This  resolution  seems  to  have 
been  adopted,  for  the  purpose  of  operating  upon 
the  commerce  of  Great  Britain,  and  not  to  have 
been  intended  to  distress  those  who  might  be  in 
clined  to  settle  in  America. 
9* 


[90] 

I  shall,  probably,  in  the  course  of  a  twelvemonth, 
leave  this  country,  and  I  am  desirous  to  know 
whether  my  carrying  to  New- York  my  coach, 
furniture,  plate,  books  and  other  things  intended 
for  my  own  use,  will  meet  with  the  approbation 
of  the  committee. 

If  they  should  be  of  opinion,  that  these  things 
ought  not  to  be  carried  to  America,  I  shall  order 
them  to  be  sold,  and  shall  cheerfully  submit  to  any 
loss  or  inconvenience  I  may  sustain  by  it. 

Permit  me  to  offer  my  congratulations,  on  the 
honorable  testimony  you  have  received  from  your 
countrymen  of  their  esteem,  by  being  appointed  a 
member  of  that  body,  which  alone  can,  and  which, 
I  am  confidently  of  opinion,  will  occasion  the  re 
dress  of  our  grievances. 

I  am  sir,  with  great  regard, 

Your  most  obedient  servant, 

RA.  IZARD. 

P.  S.  You  will  be  pleased  to  direct  to  me,  to 
the  care  of  Messrs.  Sayre,  Coote,  Pendon  &  Co., 
in  Oxford-street,  London. 


191  J 


From  Mr.  hard  to  John  Strange,  Esq. 
His  Britannic  Majesty's  Resident,  at  Venice. 

LONDON,  June  13,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  :— 

The  commands  which  you  were  so 
good  as  to  lay  on  me,  on  leaving  Venice,  I  cheer 
fully  obey,  and  inform  you  of  our  safe  arrival  in 
England. 

We  are  extremely  sensible  of  Mrs.  Strangers 
and  your  politeness  and  attention  to  us,  and  beg 
you  will  accept  of  our  thanks. 

Your  friend,  at  Verona,  visited  us  immediately 
after  the  delivery  of  your  letter,  and  passed  the 
evening  with  us  ;  he  would  have  been  very  service 
able  to  us,  had  we  made  any  stay  at  that  town. 

The  mountains  between  Bremen  and  Inspruck, 
are  covered  with  snow,  which  made  the  journey  a 
little  disagreeable.  We  were  too  soon  by  at  least 
a  month,  to  see  the  Tyrol  to  advantage. 

Our  tour  into  Germany,  was  extended  as  far  as 
Manheim  and  Frankfort,  which  afforded  us  a  great 
deal  of  pleasure. 


[92] 

There  are,  in  the  palace  of  Manheim,  some  very 
good  pictures  from  the  Italian  schools,  and  by  far 
the  best  collection  of  Flemish  pictures  that  I  ever 
saw.  I  prefer  them  to  the  collection  at  Dussel- 
dorp,  and,  indeed,  to  any  other  single  collection. 

The  elector  takes  care  to  have  them  in  excel 
lent  order,  which  is  a  very  great  addition  to  the 
beauty  of  their  appearance.  A  little  German 
cleanliness  would  not  be  disserviceable  either  to 
the  pictures  or  palaces  of  Italy. 

You  will  have  seen,  by  the  newspapers,  that  my 
conjectures  with  regard  to  America,  were  not  ill- 
founded.  Many  people  here  are  of  opinion,  that 
an  accommodation  would  take  place  without  blood 
shed.  I  cannot  conceive  what  should  induce  them 
to  think  so.  When  I  heard  of  the  dissolution  of 
Parliament,  I  forsaw  everything  that  has  happened 

The  measures  that  have  been  pursued  for  these 
two  years,  could  not  possibly  have  been  productive 
of  different  consequences.  I  should  have  been 
happy,  if  the  dispute  between  these  countries,  with 
both  of  which  I  am  so  intimately  connected,  could 
have  been  otherwise  settled. 

Petitions  and  remonstrances  have  been  offered, 
and  contemptuously  rejected.  Parliament  has  de 
clared,  that  nothing  less  than  a  total  and  unlimited 
acknowledgment  of  their  authority,  would  satisfy. 


[93] 

To  this,  America  never  could  submit,  as  no  securi 
ty  has  been  offered  against  the  abuse  of  it. 

The  administration  instead  of  arguments,  have 
thought  proper  to  substitute  bayonets  and  cannon* 
the  "  ultima  ratio  regum" 

Mrs.  Izard  joins  me  in  offering  compliments  to 
Mrs.  Strange.  If  either  of  us  can  be  of  any  ser 
vice  to  you  here,  you  will  make  us  happy  by  laying 
your  commands  on  us. 


From  Mr.  Izard  to  George  Dempster,  Esq. 

LONDON,  June ^25, 1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

The  storm  thickens  very  fast  to  the 
westward,  and  it  will  certainly  not  blow  over  soon. 
The  people  of  New- York  have  taken  the  Govern 
ment  out  of  Mr.  Colden's  hands. 

They  have  been  informed  that  a  considerable 
part  of  the  reinforcement,  which  left  Ireland  in  the 


194] 

spring,  was  intended  for  them.  They  have  come 
to  the  resolution  to  oppose  their  landing. 

The  exemption  from  the  restraints  which  the 
other  colonies  were  laid  under,  appear  to  them  as 
it  ought  to  do.  They  do  not  see  it  as  Lord  North 
wished  they  should,  but  they  look  upon  it  to  be  a 
most  impudent  attempt  to  bribe  them,  and  they 
have  contemptuously  rejected  it. 

Connecticut  and  Jersey,  have  offered  New- York 
every  assistance,  and  if  the  troops  attempt  to  land 
there,  you  may  expect  to  hear  of  bloody  work. 

In  South  Carolina,  the  people  have  seized  above 
a  thousand  stand  of  arms  which  were  in  the  state 
house.  I  expect  to  hear  soon,  that  the  persons 
who  have  made  this  seizure,  have  marched  to 
Georgia  and  taken  possession  of  Savannah,  which 
is  the  only  trading  port  of  any  consequence  in 
America,  except  Quebec,  which  is  open. 

A  motion  for  that  purpose  was  made  in  Charles- 
town  at  a  full  meeting,  and  rejected  by  a  majority 
of  four  voices.  They  had  not  then  heard  of  the 
battle  of  Lexington,  and  the  proceedings  of  New- 
York. 

I  have  seen  a  gentleman  from  Philadelphia,  who 
assures  me,  that  the  people  are  all  determined 
there. 

He  says  there  was  to  his  knowledge,  smuggled 


[95] 

there  in  one  vessel,  five  thousand  muskets  and 
twenty-five  tons  of  gunpowder,  from  St.  Eustatia. 
At  Germantown,  in  Pennsylvania,  they  make  pow 
der  sufficient,  he  thinks,  to  supply  all  America. 
He  has  tried  it,  and  finds  it  full  as  good  as  any  he 
has  ever  used. 

In  North  Carolina,  Governor  Martin  has  made 
a  most  violent  speech  of  the  4th  of  April,  against 
committees  and  congresses.  The  Assembly,  in 
their  answer,  have  done  themselves  honor ;  a  bet 
ter  address  never  was  penned.  Would  to  God, 
that  the  House  of  Commons  of  this  kingdom,  would 
follow  their  example  and  speak  the  language  of 
truth,  instead  of  servilely  echoing  the  King's 
speech.  I  intend  to  send  the  speech  and  answer 
to  one  of  the  London  papers. 

You  shall  have  them  sent  to  you,  as  I  am  sure 
they  will  give  you  pleasure. 

Mr.  Martin  has  thought  proper  to  dissolve  the 
Assembly.  Government  here,  is  utterly  at  a  loss 
what  to  do.  Their  wickedness  and  folly,  may, 
perhaps,  plunge  the  empire  into  greater  misfor 
tunes. 

I  remain,  dear  sir, 

Your  affectionate  friend,  and 

Humble  servant, 
RA.  IZARD. 


[96] 

From  George  Dempster,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

DUNNECHEN,  July  6,  1775. 
MY  DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  am  favored  with  yours  of 
the  1st  of  July,  and  I  thank  you  for  the  communi 
cation  of  your  American  intelligence,  which  it  will 
be  obliging  to  favor  me  with,  now  and  then. 

Pray,  did  you  receive  a  long  letter  from  me 
about  the  middle  of  last  month,  on  the  subject  of 
America  ?  You  see  by  that  letter  what  a  hetero 
dox  American  I  am. 

It  will  give  me  pleasure  to  hear  of  the  proceed 
ings  of  the  Continental  Congress.  Our  unfortunate 
misunderstanding  with  that  country,  has  produced 
one  curious  spectacle  for  a  philosopher.  We  shall 
see  the  rise,  in  our  own  time,  of  the  greatest  and 
finest  state  that  ever  was  formed. 

At  least,  I  have  a  strong  presentiment,  that  this 
Congress  will  assume  the  government  of  America, 
in  the  greater  and  more  general  points,  leaving  the 
interior  government  to  the  committees  in  the  re 
spective  counties  or  provinces.  This  is  a  constitu- 


[97] 

tion  of  so  much  freedom,  and  so  likely  to  preserve 
the  power  of  the  state,  in  the  wisest,  best  and 
ablest  hands,  that  it  promises  to  exceed  Rome  in 
grandeur,  and  Great  Britain  in  liberty. 

As  to  us,  here  at  home,  we  enjoy  many  blessings 
under  our  constitution,  compared  with  any  other 
people  of  Europe ;  perhaps  we  enjoy  as  much,  or 
more,  than  could  be  imagined,  in  a  community 
composed  of  so  many  corrupted  individuals ;  but 
we  are  subject,  in  common  with  all  monarchies,  to 
have  the  scoundrels,  like  the  scum,  always  at  the 
top — for  the  courtiers  have,  commonly,  cool  heads, 
base -hearts,  and  selfish  views  concealed  by  too 
much  art,  for  even  a  good  Prince  to  discover  the 
real  character  at  the  bottom. 

Were  the  Carolina  Assembly  within  the  atmos 
phere  of  St.  James's,  they  would  either  be  the 
echoes  of  the  minister,  or  disinterested  enough  to 
forego  immense  personal  advantages,  which,  with 
the  majority  of  anything  short  of  ancient  Roman, 
or  stoic  philosophers,  I  think  to  be  impossible.  In 
America,  you  are  public-spirited ;  I  mean  your 
Assemblies  are  so,  because  the  Governor's  power 
of  gratifying  them  is  very  limited. 

When    you  become   Deputy    Governors,   and 
Chief  Justices,  Attorney  Generals,  &c.  &c.,  I  think 
you  have  not  much  more  virtue  to  boast  of  than 
10 


[98] 

chez  nous.  Should  this  project  of  a  republic  take 
place,  that  vice  will  be  cured  for  a  time.  Nay,  you 
will  never  be  mean  again — for  a  corrupted  Roman, 
and  a  corrupted  Englishman,  are  very  different 
beings.  The  Roman,  at  least,  preserves  his  ambi 
tion  ;  the  other,  sells  that,  and  every  other  manly 
sentiment,  for  a  mess  of  pottage. 

This,  I  hope,  will  find  you  and  your  family 
quite  recovered  and  well,  at  your  summer  quarters 
of  Weymouth,  which  I  have  always  thought  the 
finest  bathing  place,  in  point  of  situation,  in  Eng 
land. 

I  am  deeply  immersed  in  farming,  and  particu 
larly  in  prosecuting  the  discovery  of  a  marie  pit, 
which  I  have  found  out  on  my  estate,  which  pro 
mises  to  produce  me  a  great  deal  of  money. 

Mrs.  Dempster  joins  me  in  offering  compliments 
to  you  and  Mrs.  Izard,  and  I  remain 

Very  affectionately,  my  dear  sir, 

Your  faithful  friend, 
GEORGE  DEMPSTER. 

RALPH  IZARD,  Esq. 


[99  ] 

From  Thomas  Lynch,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

PHILADELPHIA,  July  7,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  this  day  received  your  favor  dated 
at  Rome,  in  which  you  say  that  you  had  received 
no  letter  from  me.  Be  assured  that  I  wrote  two 
or  three,  and  enclosed  you  the  proceedings  of  our 
Congress,  and  sent  them  to  Mr.  Stead,  with  direc 
tions  to  forward  them  to  you  wherever  you  are. 

It  gives  me  much  pleasure  to  hear  that  those 
proceedings  are  approved  by  the  world.  We  have, 
indeed,  the  same  accounts  from  several  quarters. 
America,  we  hear,  is  looked  up  to  as  the  last  re 
source  of  liberty  and  the  common  rights  of  man 
kind.  Brave  and  generous,  we  fight  for  mankind, 
and  they  say,  "  to  it,  brave  boys,"  but  afford  us  not 
one  necessary  of  war — not  a  musket  or  bayonet, 
not  a  grain  of  powder.  England  has  cut  off  our 
usual  supply.  Holland  and  France,  follow  the 
noble  example.  They  say  the  Americans  are 
cowards,  poltroons,  dare  not  fight ;  yet  these  dough 
ty  heroes  take  care  to  deprive  us  of  the  means  of 


defence.  If  we  are  so  fearful,  why  disarm  us  ? 
But  they  know  the  contrary.  In  the  first  of  Gen 
eral  Gage's  attempts  against  the  people,  his  regu 
lars  were  put  to  flight  by  half  their  number  of 
militia,  without  officers  or  commanders, 
*****  This  account  comes 
through  men  of  character  on  the  spot,  and  may  be 
depended  on  ;  it  is  confirmed  by  most  undoubted 
letters,  and  you  may  say  so. 

There  are  now  marching  to  the  camp,  a  thou 
sand  riflemen.  They  are,  at  'listing,  rejected, 
unless  they  can  hit  a  playing-card,  without  a  rest, 
at  one  hundred  and  twenty  yards  distance.  Al 
most  every  fencible  man,  in  all  the  colonies,  is 
trained,  and  ready  to  supply  any  loss.  The  regu 
lars  have,  in  any  case,  never  appeared  equal  to 
our  troops,  man  for  man.  What,  then,  have  we 
to  fear  ?  loss  of  money,  alone ;  and  may  the 
wretch  perish,  who  puts  that  in  competition. 
Will  Lord  Effingham  come  to  us  ?  he  would  be 
almost  adored. 

Dear  sir,  can  the  friends  of  old  England  find  no 
way  to  stop  this  fatal  war  going  on — to  the  cer 
tain  destruction  of  that  once  great  state?  All 
America  pants  for  reconciliation ;  they  dread, 
what  may  be  easily  prevented  by  government,  a 
total  separation.  Should  war  go  on  another  year, 


I  101  ] 

a  government  must  be  formed  here — it  is  unavoid 
able  ;  and  when  once  that  is  done,  it  will  be,  I  fear, 
impossible  to  restore  the  connection.  When  Amer 
ica  acts  unitedly,  she  will  feel  herself  too  strong 
to  submit  to  such  restrictions  as  she  now  does. 
In  short,  the  time  will  be  past. 

The  people  of  New- York,  are  now  fixed  on  the 
side  of  liberty.  Georgia  is  near  coming  in. 

Mrs.  Lynch  unites  with  me,  in  compliments  to 
Mrs  Izard.  We  hope  to  see  you,  before  we  leave 
this  part  of  America. 

Your  affectionate  friend, 

THOMAS  LYNCH. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  Henry  Laurens,  Esq. 

LONDON,  8th  July,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

Government,  here,  is  at  a  loss  what 
measure  to  pursue.     They  are  heartily  sick  of  the 
American  business,  and  would  be  very  glad,  if  pos- 
10* 


[  102  ] 

sible,  to  get  rid  of  it.  There  is  but  one  way  to 
bring  things  right  again,  and  their  pride  and  folly 
will  lead  them  to  attempt  everything  but  that. 

Lord  North's  tone  is  a  little  humbled  since  the 
defeat  at  Lexington,  and  the  conduct  of  New 
York  has  been  known  here. 

The  assurances  given  to  the  Peers,  by  Lord 
Sandwich,  and  to  the  House  of  Commons,  by  Colo 
nel  Grant,  that  the  Americans  were  a  set  of  the 
most  infamous  poltroons,  made  him  expect  that  all 
would  fall  prostrate. 

Nothing  would,  he  said,  satisfy  him,  but  uncon 
ditional  submission.  America  might  then  expect 
favor,  but  upon  no  other  terms. 

The  language  of  court  is  not  different.  Their 
hatred  still  continues,  but  their  fears  are  excited. 
All  sense  of  honor  has  long  since  been  banished 
from  them,  and  nothing  but  fear  can  have  any  ef 
fectual  operation. 

The  Congress  was  despised,  reviled  and  brand 
ed,  with  every  opprobrious  epithet.  They  now 
look  up  to  this  body,  and  pretend  to  expect  some 
thing  conciliatory  from  them. 

For  my  part,  I  expect  to  hear  they  have  voted 
an  army,  and  ordered  paper  money  to  be  stamped 
for  the  payment  of  it. 

You  may  depend  upon  it,  that  America  has  no- 


[  103  ] 

thing  to  expect  from  this  country ;  her  own  vir 
tuous  exertions  must  preserve  her,  or  she  must 
sink  into  destruction. 

I  cannot  sufficiently  admire  the  proceedings  of 
the  last  Congress  ;  and  I  dare  say,  that  the  present 
one,  now  sitting  in  Philadelphia,  will  show  itself  to 
be  the  genuine  offspring  of  the  same  parents. 

The  King  seems  to  be  struck  with  horror  at  the 
idea  of  treating  with  the  Congress.  He  expects 
to  make  a  better  bargain,  if  he  treats  with  the 
provinces  separately. 

The  Scotch,  in  this  country,  are  unanimously 
against  us.  They  openly  express  their  wishes, 
that  the  inhabitants  of  the  four  New  England  pro 
vinces  may  be  extirpated.  I  trust  in  God  they 
will  be  disappointed. 

In  the  course  of  this  month,  I  expect  to  hear  of 
some  bloody  scene  having  been  acted  in  the  Mas 
sachusetts  bay.  Nothing  now  can  settle  the  dis 
pute  but  the  sword.  All  argument  seems  long  to 
have  been  lost,  and  the  point  is  transferred  from 
the  casuist  to  the  soldier. 

I  am  happy  to  find  that  there  is  the  greatest 
unanimity  throughout  America.  The  Dutch  mot 
to,  "  Concordia  parva  res  crescunt"  is  a  wise  ob 
servation.  The  provinces  of  America  must,  if 
firmly  united,  prove  irresistible. 


t  104  ] 

The  conduct  of  this  country,  towards  us,  has 
been  both  weak  and  wicked.  If  they  had  con 
ducted  their  schemes  with  ability,  and  conciliated 
the  affections  of  one  province,  while  they  were 
sapping  the  liberties  of  another,  they  might  have 
proved  very  destructive  ;  but  to  make  so  open  and 
undisguised  an  attack  upon  the  whole,  at  the  same 
time,  was  nothing  less  than  the  most  extravagant 
fool-hardiness. 

I  wrote  you  several  letters,  while  I  was  abroad, 
and  hope  they  came  safe  to  your  hands.  In  one 
of  them,  I  requested  you  to  plant  some  mulberry- 
trees,  at  my  place  at  Goose  creek,  and  some 
cotton. 

I  do  not  think  this  unnatural  contest  will  last  a 
year  longer.  It  is,  however,  prudent  to  guard 
against  the  distress  that  may  be  occasioned  from 
the  want  of  negro-cloth  and  blankets. 

I  write  you  nothing  about  my  affairs,  but  trust 
that  you  will  do  everything  that  can  be  done.  I 
should  think  that  indigo,  from  Carolina,  would  find 
a  good  market  at  Curacoa  or  St.  Eustatia.  These 
places  do  not  come  within  the  prohibitions  of  the 
Congress. 


[  105] 

From  Mr.  hard  to  John  De  Lancey,  Esq. 

LONDON,  July  9,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  am  very  glad  to  find  your  name 
on  the  list  of  the  committee  of  New- York,  and 
beg  leave  to  congratulate  you  on  it. 

The  conduct  of  the  Assembly  has  given  me 
much  uneasiness,  and  I  am  very  happy  to  find 
their  opinions  were  totally  different  from  those  of 
the  province  in  general.  Many  people,  here,  think 
that  some  unfair  means  have  been  used.  As  I 
cannot  believe  that  any  member  of  Assembly  has 
been  base  enough  to  suffer  himself  to  be  bribed,  I 
am  utterly  incapable  of  conceiving  what  could  in 
duce  them  to  attempt  to  break  that  union  of  the 
colonies,  from  which,  alone,  a  redress  of  the  griev 
ances  of  America  could  be  expected. 

The  different  Assemblies  have  often  applied  to 
Parliament,  without  effect ;  so  that  they  had  not 
even  the  excuse  of  having  tried  something  new. 

I  approve  highly  of  the  proceedings  of  the  Con 
tinental  Congress,  in  general ;  and  I  am  firmly  of 


[  106  ] 

opinion,  that,  if  the  virtue  and  fortitude  of  Amer 
ica  be  equal  to  the  wisdom  of  her  delegates,  the 
contest  will  soon  be  determined  in  our  favor. 

The  salvation  of  the  colonies  depends  upon  the 
strict  adherence  to  the  measures  recommended  by 
them.  There  is  not  a  man  in  this  kingdom,  but  is 
prejudiced  on  one  side  or  the  other,  of  this  dispute. 
The  opinions,  therefore,  of  people  here  about  the 
Congress,  are  regulated  according  to  their  political 
sentiments. 

Foreigners,  who  do  not  see  this  affair  through 
the  medium  of  prejudice,  are  universally  of  our 
side,  and  speak  in  raptures  of  the  wisdom  of  their 
proceedings. 

I  remain,  dear  sir, 

Sincerely  yours, 

RA.  IZARD. 


[  107] 

From  Arthur  Lee,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

LONDON,  July  28,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  should  have  written  to  you  be 
fore,  but  that  I  had  nothing  to  tell  you,  more  than 
might  be  found  in  every  newspaper. 

There  is  no  authentic  account  of  the  last  en 
gagement,  from  the  other  side.  ***** 

Colonel  Washington  left  the  Congress,  for  the 
army,  as  Generalissimo,  on  the  12th  June,  escorted 
by  a  thousand  horse,  from  Pennsylvania.  *  *  * 

The  Assembly  of  Virginia  have  rejected  Lord 
North's  proposition,  as  an  insult  on  their  under 
standings.  They  are  making  a  treaty  with  the 
Indians. 

South  Carolina,  I  am  told,  has  issued  a  proclama 
tion,  calling  home  all  their  natives,  from  sixteen  to 
sixty ;  and,  it  is  said,  they  have  imprisoned  Sir 
James,  in  Georgia. 

A  man  was  taken  in  New- York,  enlisting  men 
for  Gage,  and  is  condemned  to  the  mines  for  life. 

The  ministry  are  determined  to  carry  on  the 


[  108  ] 

war  with  vigor.  The  sending  Hanoverians,  is  un 
der  consideration.  The  difficulties  they  find  in 
raising  seamen  and  soldiers,  are  insuperable,  and 
will  probably  determine  them  to  send  Germans. 

I  called  in  Newman-street,  expecting  to  see  my 
friend  Charles,  but  was  informed,  he  also  was  on 
his  travels.  My  best  respects  to  Mrs.  Izard.  I 
hope  the  waters  have  benefited  Charlotte,  and  that 
you  are  all  in  good  health,  though,  in  these  unhap 
py  times,  it  is  impossible  to  feel  in  good  spirits.  I 
set  out  on  the  circuit,  the  31st,  for  three  weeks. 

Adieu, 

ARTHUR  LEE. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  George  Dempster,  Esq. 

WEYMOUTH,  August  1,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

General  Gage's  proclamation  is,  I 
think,  the  most  absurd  and  contemptible  publica 
tion  I  ever  read.  I  cannot  help  thinking  that  his 


[  109  ] 

own  bombast  "  of  a  preposterous  parade  of  Mili 
tary  arrangement,"  may  be  very  aptly  applied  to 
himself.  He  is  certainly  in  a  very  unfortunate 
situation ;  and  I  am  firmly  persuaded,  that,  if  he 
attempts  to  march  into  the  country,  he  and  his 
Army  will  be  totally  cut  off,  in  the  course  of  the 
summer. 

His  Artillery  may,  in  several  engagements,  be 
very  destructive  to  the  Provincials ;  and  he  may, 
by  that  means,  keep  possession  of  the  field  of  bat 
tle  ;  but  he  will,  I  believe,  find  his  men  dimmish  so 
much,  that  he  may  be  of  Pyrrhus's  opinion,  when 
in  Italy,  "  that  many  such  Victories  would  prove 
the  destruction  of  him." 

Before  I  had  finished  my  last  letter,  the  news  of 
the  battle,  in  which  Abercrombie  was  killed,  ar 
rived  at  Weymouth.  Poor  Abercrombie !  I  was 
acquainted  with  him.  He  was  a  brave  and  good- 
natured  man ;  if  he  had  died  in  any  other  cause, 
I  shonld  have  lamented  his  loss.  His  duty  did  not 
require  him  to  go  to  Boston,  as  his  Regiment  was 
not  there.  He  was  a  Volunteer,  and  therefore,  he 
has,  I  think,  met  with  the  fate  he  deserved. 

Your  friends,  General  Eraser  and  Sir  William 

Erskine,  have  certainly  offered  their  services  to 

go  to  America.     Sir  t:  -lliam   has  gained  much 

honor  in  the  field,  and  nis  character  stands  high  in 

11 


[  no] 

the  world.  I  hope  he  will  not  tarnish  it  by  such 
an  expedition.  "  Felix,  quern  faciunt  aliena  peri- 
cula  cautum." 

The  Gazette  will  have  informed  you,  that,  up 
wards  of  one  thousand  and  fifty  British  Troops 
have  been  killed  and  wounded.  Will  this  open 
the  eyes  of  the  King ;  or  will  he  still  require  more 
damning  proofs  of  his  having  been  fatally  deceiv 
ed  ?  More  than  two  thousand,  of  the  chosen  part 
of  General  Gage's  army,  sent  upon  an  expedition 
within  sight  of  Boston,  under  the  command  of 
General  Howe,  the  best  officer  he  had,  and  to 
have  above  half  killed  and  disabled  by  a  few  men 
of  one  Province,  (a  few,  compared  with  what  that 
Province  could  and  would  bring  into  the  field,  if 
there  were  an  occasion  for  them,)  should  make 
the  King  doubt  of  the  possibility  of  succeeding  in 
the  present  plan. 

To  my  mind,  it  is  equal  to  a  demonstration,  that 
he  cannot. 

You  wished  to  be  informed  of  the  proceedings  of 
the  Continental  Congress.  They  are  kept  so 
secret,  that  nothing  has  transpired  but  a  few  arti 
cles,  which  they  have  allowed  to  be  published — 
such  as  their  directions  to  the  City  and  County  of 
New- York — how  to  conduct  themselves,  if  any  of 
the  King's  troops  should  arrive  in  their  Province — 


[  111  ] 

Their  orders,  that  no  more  provisions  should  be 
sent  to  the  Island  of  Nantucket  than  is  necessary 
for  the  inhabitants,  lest  the  Newfoundland  fisheries 
should,  from  thence,  be  supplied, — and  their  Resolu 
tion,  that  no  money  be  furnished  the  British  Army 
for  their  bills  of  exchange. 

These  things  you  have  seen  in  the  newspapers  ; 
pray  let  me  know,  which  newspaper  you  take. 

The  Congress,  by  these  few  specimens,  seem  to 
be  proceeding  with  great  wisdom. 

I  make  no  doubt,  but,  if  America  should  be 
driven  to  the  necessity  of  disuniting  herself  from 
Great  Britain,  that  the  world  would  see  the  finest 
and  freest  Constitution  formed,  that  any  people  were 
ever  blessed  with.  The  Congress,  now  sitting  at 
Philadelphia,  are  as  capable  of  forming  such  a 
Constitution,  as  any  body  of  men  on  earth. 

I  still  hope,  that  this  country  will  awaken  out  of 
her  lethargy,  and  make  it  unnecessary  for  them  to 
show  their  abilities,  on  such  an  occasion.  What 
ever  form  of  Government  may  be  adopted  in 
America  now,  or  hereafter,  I  hope  that  no  such 
order  of  men  will  be  admitted  as  a  Nobility.  Such 
a  body  of  men,  who  conceive  themselves  possessed 
of  interests,  separate  from  the  public,  can  never  be 
sufficiently  concerned  for  the  welfare  and  happiness 
of  the  people. 


I  really  believe,  that  the  pride  and  insolence  of 
the  Patricians,  were  the  causes  of  the  destruction 
of  the  Roman  Republic,  by  producing  continual  dis 
sensions  between  the  Plebeians  and  themselves. 

You  observe,  very  justly,  that  when  Americans 
become  Governors,  Chief  Justices,  Attorney  Gen 
erals,  &c.  they  have  no  more  virtue  to  boast  of 
than  other  people.  Self-love  is  the  strong  ruling 
passion  of  mankind.  It  is  not  to  be  wondered  at, 
that  these  gentlemen,  after  having  tasted  the  sweets, 
arising  from  the  emoluments  of  their  Offices,  should 
wish  to  increase  them,  or  v  r-f  aid  of  losing  them. 

The  attachment  of  a  creature  to  his  creator,  is 
natural,  and  when  the  latter  is  vicious,  the  former 
will  rarely  be  found  virtuous  enough  to  oppose  his 
inclinations.  This  certain  attachment  of  all  Offi 
cers,  Civil  and  Military,  to  the  Crown,  is  a  proof  to 
me  of  the  necessity  of  a  Place  Bill. 

A  limited  one  I  would  have ;  for  the  great  Offi 
cers  of  the  state,  ought  to  be  in  Parliament  for 
many  obvious  reasons. 

In  these  matters,  it  is  my  misfortune  to  differ 
totally  from  my  friends,  the  Rockinghams. 

The  arguments  of  disputants,  seldom  convince 
each  other — Voltaire  tells  us,  that  Candide  and 
his  friend,  disputed  from  the  coasts  of  America  to 
those  of  Europe,  and  each  was  more  firmly  fixed 


[  113  ] 

in  his  own  opinion.  This  is  natural ;  but,  as  I 
think  you  and  I  are  different  from  the  generality 
of  mankind,  when  we  dispute,  it  may  be  to  better 
effect. — I  am  not  surprised  at  a  great  majority  in 
Parliament  being  against  America. 

Bodies  of  men  are  as  subject  to  Ambition  and 
Haughtiness,  as  individuals.  As  long  as  the  power 
of  Parliament,  to  bind  America,  in  all  cases  what 
ever,  is  maintained,  each  member  feels  himself  the 
segment  of  a  Sovereign,  and  will,  with  reluctance, 
be  prevailed  on  to  part  with  this  dignity. 

I  was  surprised  at  the  Nation,  for  being  so  be 
numbed  and  stupified,  as  to  rest  perfectly  satisfied, 
while  those  destructive  measures  were  carry 
ing  on. 

I  formed  my  judgment  of  the  public  opinion,  by 
the  price  of  stocks  being  kept  up.  It  has  been 
said,  that  the  Administration  have  kept  them  up,  at 
a  great  expense  to  the  nation.  This  would  seem 
too  dangerous  and  iniquitous  a  step,  for  any  set  of 
men  to  take.  But,  after  what  we  have  seen,  what 
will  not  Lord  Sandwich  advise — and  Lord  North 
execute  1 

There  are  two  measures  yet,  left  unattempted, 

and  if  they  should  be  tried,  I  am  fully  convinced 

they  would  prove  ineffectual.     These  are,  to  send 

German  Troops  to  America,  and  if  they  should 

11* 


[  114] 

fail,  to  block  up  all  American  Ports,  and  Bombard 
their  Maritime  Towns, 

With  regard  to  the  Germans,  as  soon  as  they 
are  safely  landed  in  a  country  where  there  are  so 
many  of  their  countrymen,  who  have  purchased 
the  power  of  settling  and  acquiring  property,  by 
three  or  four  years  servitude — without  being  them 
selves  subject  to  so  discouraging  a  drawback  upon 
their  industry — they  would,  I  believe,  think  them 
selves  the  happiest  creatures  in  the  world — in 
deserting  and  trying  their  fortunes  among  them. 
If  this  should  not  be  the  case,  and  they  should 
choose  to  fight — I  am  confident,  they  would  be 
beaten. 

There  are  but  three  towns,  of  any  consequence, 
that  could  be  hurt  by  the  English  fleet — Boston — 
New-York — and  Charlestown,  in  South  Carolina. 

The  situation  of  Philadelphia,  with  the  industry 
of  the  inhabitants  of  Pennsylvania,  may  bid  them 
defiance.  The  loss  of  these  towns  would  be  to 
America  a  trifle,  when  compared  to  the  subject 
she  is  contending  for  ;  and  the  block -'sg  up  of  all  the 
harbors,  would  be  putting  it  out  of  tkj  power  of 
individuals — to  break  the  general  non-importation 
and  non-exportation  association. 

If  the  Parliament  arc  determined  not  to  give  up 
their  unjust  pretentions,  I  wish,  at  least,  they  would 


[115] 

stop  the  further  effusion  of  blood — and  try  by  this 
last  method,  which  Country,  England — or  America, 
could  hold  out  longest  without  the  other. 


From  George  Mercer,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

MANCHESTER,  August  18, 1775. 
DEAR  IZARD  :— 

I  was  hurried  from  home  sud 
denly,  the  25th  ultimo,  on  account  of  some  busi 
ness.      *  *  *        *        * 
I  have  an  amazing  budget  from  America,  part 

of  it  from  General  Washi n,  but  as  they  have 

been  so  long  in  London,  the  papers  furnished  me 
with  all  the  news  the  letters  contained,  before  they 
reached.  Good  God,  sir,  what  must  be  the  fate  of 
this  Country  and  America  ?  They  are  so  connect 
ed,  it  is  impossible  one  should  fall,  without  pulling 
down  the  other.  There  never  was  an  example  of 
such  union  and  friendship,  as  prevails  all  through 
America.  They  are,  to  a  man,  determined  to  die, 


[  U6] 

rather  than  submit — and  every  one  here  says,  they 
must  submit.  Heaven  only  knows  how  fatal  the 
struggle  must  prove  to  both  parties,  and  I  venture 
(without  going  further  into  futurity  than  humanity 
has  a  right  to  do)  to  foretell,  no  Military  force  that 
/can  be  supplied  from  this  quarter,  will  ever  subdue 
them. 

The  Provincial  Congress  of  Virginia,  have  en 
tered  into  the  same  resolution  with  South  Carolina, 
"  to  summon  all  absentees,  above  twenty  and  under 
sixty,  to  return  to  their  respective  Provinces."  I 
have  not  been  regularly  served  with  one,  nor  do  I 
suppose  you  have.  Nevertheless,  I  am  informed, 
the  strict  letter  of  it  is  meant  to  be  complied  with — 
and  that  a  Confiscation  general  will  follow  a  refu 
sal.  We  shall  both  know  more  soon,  if  that  is  to 
be  the  case. 

I  am  very  glad  to  hear,  bathing  has  so  good  an 
effect  on  you.  The  times  are  hard  indeed,  but  the 
Butcher  will  always  feed  you  cheaper  than  the 
Apothecary.  *  *  *  *  * 

There  is  an  amazing  trade  carried  on  in  this 
place.  The  most  intelligent  Manufacturers  here, 
say  they  feel  no  great  loss  yet  in  their  business, 
from  the  American  associations.  It  is,  indeed, 
probable,  that  they  do  not  yet  feel  much,  but  the 
time  must  come — and  even  themselves  acknow- 


L  117] 

ledge,  that  had  the  American  demand  been  as 
good  as  usual,  they  should  have  been  obliged  to 
hire  more  hands  ;  but  the  European  demands  have 
increased  so  much — with  the  decrease  of  the  Amer 
ican — that  they  have  not  discharged  any  of  their 
workmen,  and,  in  fact,  at  present,  their  trade  has 
only  shifted  to  another  channel. 
I  am,  dear  Izard, 

With  much  regard  and  truth,- 

Your  faithful  and  obliged  friend, 
GEO.  MERCER. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  Arthur  Lee,  Esq. 

WEYMOUTH,  August  21,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

Your  three  weeks  Circuit  must  be 
finished  about  this  time,  and  I  hope  you  are  re 
turned  in  good  health,  and  loaded  with  fees — re 
wards  for  the  defence  of  innocence,  and  prosecu 
tion  of  guilt.  Your  gold  does  not,  like  Vespa 
sian's,  smell  equally  sweet ;  ex  re  qualibet. 


L 

The  Scotch,  I  find,  have  been  indefatigable  in 
their  exertions  against  General  Gage.  They  have, 
as  usual,  carried  their  point,  and  he  is,  it  seems,  to 
be  superseded  by  Sir  Jeffrey.  The  same  art  has 
been  employed  against  him,  that  Mr.  Yorke  so  fa 
tally  experienced,  and  the  same  Serpent  was  the 
agent. 

The  consequences  will  not  be  the  same.  Mr. 
Yorke  was  a  man  of  sensibility.  ***** 

I  am  very  much  pleased  with  General  Lee's  let 
ter  to  General  Burgoyne.  Lee  has  acquired  con 
siderable  property ;  and  I  have  been  assured,  by 
people  who  know  well,  that  he  would  never  risk 
the  losing  of  it  by  entering  into  the  service  of 
America.  The  part  he  has  acted,  after  having 
taken  such  a  considerable  time  to  think  of  it,  is  a 
proof  that  he  does  not  think  there  is  much  danger 
of  that. 

I  wish  to  know  whether  he  is  appointed  second 
or  third,  in  Command,  or  whether  the  Congress 
have  taken  any  measures  to  prevent  his  ever  be 
coming,  by  the  death  of  superior  officers,  Com- 
mander-in-Chief.  Have  these  Officers  taken  an 
oath  to  obey  the  orders  of  the  Congress  ?  This,  I 
take  for  granted,  as  it  seems  absolutely  necessary. 

Mr.  Richard  Penn,  I  hear,  is  arrived,  and  has 
brought  another  Petition  to  the  King,  from  the 


[  119  J 

Congress.  This  will  be  as  contemptuously  treat 
ed  as  the  last  was,  and  it  is  probable  that  no  more 
will  ever  be  offered. 

When  you  hear  any  news  that  has  not  got  into 
the  papers — I  wish  you  would,  from  time  to  time, 
communicate  it  to  me. 

Mrs.  Izard  desires  her  compliments.  I  believe 
we  shall  stay  here,  three  or  four  weeks  longer, 
and  then  go  to  Bath. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  Thomas  Lynch,  Esq. 

WEYMOUTH,  September  8,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

J  am  this  day,  favored  with  your 
letter,  by  Mr.  Penn,  which  was  sent  me  from  Lon 
don.  I  have  been  here  several  weeks  for  the  pur 
pose  of  bathing  one  of  my  children,  who  stands  in 
need  of  it. 

During  my  tour  on  the  continent,  I  made  it  my 
business  to  sound  the  dispositions  of  all  sorts  of 


[  120  ] 

people,  and  almost  constantly  found  them  well- 
wishers  to  the  American  cause.  I  do  not  suppose 
their  good  wishes  to  us,  proceed  from  any  virtu 
ous  principles.  England  is  the  object  of  their  ter 
ror  and  envy,  and  anything  that  will  tend  to  mor 
tify  and  humble  her — will  be  pleasing  to  them. 
The  French  and  Dutch  would  be  very  glad  to  af 
ford  any  assistance,  which  would  not  endanger 
their  going  to  war  with  Great  Britain. 

The  late  ill-success  that  Spain  has  met  with,  in 
her  expedition  against  Algiers,  will  be  an  addi 
tional  security  to  England.  This  event,  together 
with  the  profound  tranquillity  which  reigns  in 
every  other  part  of  Europe — gives  confidence  to 
the  infamous  set  of  men  who  govern  this  King 
dom,  and  will,  I  believe,  make  them  reject  every 
plan  of  accommodation,  with  America,  which  can 
be  offered. 

You  are  surprised  that  France  and  Holland 
have  not  sent  you  Muskets  and  Gunpowder,  as  you 
are  fighting  for  the  rights  of  mankind.  I  am  sur 
prised,  for  another  reason — they  might  have  sold 
their  Muskets  and  Ammunition,  and  got  money  by 
it.  Depend  upon  it,  you  will  never  be  assisted  by 
any  people  from  motives  of  generosity ;  and,  if 
anything  ever  looks  like  it,  still  interest  will  be  at 
the  bottom  of  it. 


[121  ] 

France,  most  sincerely,  wishes  America  to  be 
disunited  from  Great  Britain.  She  thinks  that,  if 
she  were  to  interfere  now,  Great  Britain  would  be 
forced  into  an  immediate  accommodation,  and  the 
union  between  us,  would  be  stronger  than  ever. 
Should  the  civil  war  continue,  and  America  form 
an  independent  Constitution  for  herself,  and  pub 
lish  an  invitation  to  all  powers  to  trade  with  her — 
interest  would  begin  to  operate,  and  I  believe 
that  France,  would  then  stand  forth.  The 
strength  of  England,  must  be  considerably  re 
duced  by  the  contest ;  and  this  will  certainly  be 
no  small  inducement  to  France,  to  declare  her 
self,  for  she  still  severely  feels,  the  consequences 
of  the  last  war. 

I  am  happy  to  find  that  America  can  make  gun 
powder  and  arms,  and  that  she  is  strong  enough 
to  disappoint  her  enemies.  I  am  firmly  of  that 
opinion,  myself,  and  I  trust  in  God,  we  shall  not  be 
mistaken.  I  have  the  greatest  confidence  in  the 
wisdom  and  virtue  of  the  Congress,  and  do,  from 
my  soul,  believe  them  to  be  the  best — the  most  in 
corrupt — and  disinterested  representative  body,  that 
ever  the  world  saw ;  at  the  same  time,  I  think, 
that  they  should  not  have  extended  their  prohibi 
tions,  to  those  articles,  which  you  cannot  do  with 
out,  and  which  you  cannot,  without  great  diffi- 
12 


[122] 

culty,  supply  yourselves  with — I  mean,  Salt  and 
Negro-cloth. 

Even  if  your  friends  could  have  sent  you  Arms 
and  Ammunition,  from  this  country,  they  would 
have  been  returned,  and  the  names  of  the  persons 
made  public.  Absentees,  and  strangers,  who  might 
be  inclined  to  settle  in  America,  should,  I  think, 
likewise  have  been  excepted.  Their  numbers  are 
not  very  considerable,  and  what  they  might  carry 
for  their  own  use,  could  not  possibly  be  felt  by  the 
manufacturers  of  this  country.  The  Congresses, 
in  the  respective  Provinces,  and  the  committees  of 
observation,  could  have  prevented  any  abuses  in 
this  matter.  Your  Petition  to  the  King,  is  just 
published,  and  I  admire  it  much.  It  was  extreme 
ly  well-judged,  to  have  it  drawn  in  such  moderate 
terms.  Do  not,  however,  imagine,  that  argument 
will  affect  him,  or  that  justice  will  operate  on  his 
mind.  The  people  of  America  must,  by  this  time, 
be  pretty  well  acquainted  with  his  character. 

I  wrote  to  you,  in  June,  very  soon  after  my  ar 
rival  in  London,  and  directed  to  you  in  Charles- 
town.  At  that  time,  the  people  of  England,  were 
much  more  against  America,  than  they  are  at  pre 
sent  ;  that  is,  they  were  much  more  ready  to  adopt 
the  Ministers'  measures,  because  they  took  Lord 
Sandwich's  word,  and  Colonel  Grant's,  that  the 


[  123] 

Americans  were  all  cowards  and  would  not  fight ; 
consequently — they  expected  an  easy  triumph, 
without  much  expense. 

The  opinion  of  people  now  begins  to  change ; 
they  affect  to  feel  for  the  effusion  of  blood,  and  the 
distresses  of  their  countrymen.  Humanity  is  a 
pretence ;  fear,  and  interest,  act  more  powerfully 
on  their  minds.  A  total  defeat  of  the  Parliamen 
tary  Army,  will  bring  things  right  again,  and  I 
really  believe  that  nothing  else  will.  If  this  can 
not  be  effected  during  the  winter,  a  formidable 
force,  will  be  sent  against  you  in  the  spring.  If 
the  Army,  which  is  at  present  there,  could  be  cut 
off,  it  would  have  such  an  effect  on  the  people 
here,  that  Administration  would  never  venture  to 
send  another. 

Before  you  receive  this,  you  will  find  that  Gen 
eral  Gage,  is  recalled,  and  General  Howe,  put  in 
his  place.  Gage  was  not  sanguinary  enough  for 
the  Scotch  junto.  A  gentleman  of  the  North,  was 
heard  some  time  ago  to  say,  at  Drummond's,  the 
Bankers,  ah !  if  they  had  sent  my  countryman, 
James  Murray,  he  would  not  have  left  man,  wo 
man  or  child,  alive  among  them  by  this  time.  Dr. 
Hunter,  a  Scotchman,  who  is  continually  about  the 
King's  family,  says  publicly,  that  the  four  New 
England  Provinces,  ought  to  be  totally  extirpated  ; 


[  124] 

and  if  they  are  ever  suffered  to  be  repeopled,  they 
should  be  bound  by  such  laws,  as  will  keep  them 
from  ever  having  it  in  their  power  to  offend  again. 
These  are  pretty  sentiments  ! 

I  shall  stay  in  England,  this  winter,  and  go  to 
America  in  the  spring,  unless  there  should  be  any 
probability  of  my  being  of  service  by  staying 
here  longer.  All  letters  from  you,  and  the  other 
members  of  Congress,  should  be  sent  by  private 
and  confidential  hands,  for  reasons  which  require 
no  explanation.  I  beg  leave  to  introduce  to  your 
acquaintance,  my  brother-in-law,  Mr.  Oliver  De 
Lancey,  who  is  the  bearer  of  this.  He  is  a  very 
worthy  young  man,  and  unalterably  attached  to 
the  cause  of  his  country.  When  you  write  to  me, 
do  not  sign  your  name,  as  I  know  your  hand,  nor 
direct  the  letter,  but  put  it  into  the  hands  of  a  per 
son  you  can  depend  upon. 

Mr.  Wedderburne,  would  find  no  difficulty  in 
torturing  our  correspondence  into  high  treason. 

I  hear  nothing  of  the  Germans.  The  Prince  of 
Hesse,  is  now  in  London.  I  am  of  opinion  that 
German  troops,  will  be  sent  to  America  in  the 
spring.  Proper  rewards  offered  to  them,  would, 
probably,  draw  them  to  you.  Give  my  compli 
ments  to  Dr.  Franklin,  and  consult  him  on  this 
subject.  The  leading  people,  among  the  Ger- 


I  125] 

mans  of  Pennsylvania,  should  likewise  be  consult 
ed.  The  Ministry  are  so  obstinate,  and  the  King 
so  bent  upon  subjugating  you,  that  I  should  not  be 
surprised,  if  you  had  ten  or  fifteen  thousand  Prus 
sians  likewise. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  Lieutenant-Governor  Colden. 

WEYMOUTH,  September  10,  1775, 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

It  is  long  since  I  troubled  you  with 
a  letter.  I  can  never  avoid  politics,  and  while  you 
were  in  the  Administration,  it  might  have  been  in 
convenient  to  have  had  my  letters  to  you  scrutin- 
ized  at  the  post  office.  The  gentlemen  there 
have  an  insatiable  curiosity. 

You  have  had  a  great  deal  of  trouble,  and  have 
conducted  yourself  to  the  satisfaction  of  all  par 
ties.  This  is  a  very  difficult  matter,  and  requires 
more  than  ordinary  abilities  to  accomplish. 

When  the  tea  was  destroyed,  at  Boston,  I  wrote 
12* 


[  126] 

you  what  I  thought  the  intention  of  Government 
here,  and  I  have  not  been  mistaken.  Nothing 
could  have  prevented  the  most  violent  measures, 
but  the  fear  of  personal  danger,  if  the  success  of 
them  should  fail. 

Their  fears  were  dispelled,  and  all  personal  diffi 
culties  obviated,  by  a  man,  whose  family  was 
brought  into  this  Kingdom,  for  the  purpose  of  abol 
ishing  tyranny,  and  securing  the  liberties  of  the 
people.  He  has,  as  far  as  he  could,  defeated  the 
intention.  America  has  acted  wisely  in  not  trust 
ing  her  cause  to  his  justice  and  honor.  If  she  had 
*•— she  would  have  found  herself  in  the  situation  of 
^Esop's  sheep,  when  they  committed  themselves  to 
the  custody  of  a  wolf. 

A  civil  war  is,  doubtless,  one  of  the  most  dread 
ful  calamities  in  the  world ;  and  nothing  but  the 
cruel  alternative  of  having  such  a  person,  and 
such  a  set  of  Ministers  to  depend  upon,  could  jus 
tify  the  entering  into  it. 

The  cause  of  America  is  approved  of  by  all 
Europe;  and  if  this  country  has  not  wisdom 
enough  left  to  effect  a  speedy  accommodation, 
America  will,  I  am  fully  convinced,  be  severed 
from  her  for  ever.  ********* 

I  approve  highly  of  the  proceedings  of  the  Con 
tinental  Congress,  and  most  religiously  believe 


[  127  ] 

that  the  liberties  of  America  have  been  preserved 
by  them.  I  think  them  the  most  honorable  and 
fairly  _chosen  body  of  Representatives  that  ever 
were  in  the  world ;  and  I  can  assure  you  that,  in 
the  opinion  of  foreigners,  they  have  done  the 
greatest  honor  to  their  country. 

The  conduct  of  the  Assembly  of  New- York 
astonished  and  afflicted  me.  If  they  had  succeed 
ed  in  their  attempts  to  persuade  their  Constituents 
to  disregard  the  directions  of  the  Congress,  and 
by  that  means,  separate  themselves  from  the  other 
Colonies,  nothing  good  could  have  been  obtained — 
everything  mischievous  was  to  be  expected.  A 
disunion  is  all  that  our  enemies  wish  ;  and  could 
they  be  gratified — our  destruction  would  be  the 
certain  consequence. 

There  has  been  some  very  unfair  management 
at  New- York ;  and  if  the  scheme  of  disuniting 
that  Province  from  the  rest  of  America — had  been 
accomplished,  I  can  assure  you,  that  your  office  of 
Lieutenant  Governor,  would  have  been  transferred 
to  a  certain  gentleman,  and  you  would  have  been 
left,  after  your  long — troublesome — and  faithful 
services,  with  another  proof  of  the  wickedness 
and  ingratitude  of  the  Ministry  of  this  country. 

The  troubles  of  America,  will,  I  am  convinced, 
end  greatly  to  her  honor  and  advantage ;  and  I 


[  128] 

look  forward  with  pleasure  to  the  time  when  I 
shall  be  settled  in  New- York.  If  the  people  there — 
had  agreed  in  opinion  with  the  Assembly,  that 
event  could  never  have  taken  place  with  any  satis 
faction  or  happiness  to  myself. 

My  brother  Oliver  is  the  bearer  of  this.  He 
is  a  very  worthy  young  man,  and  is  firmly  attach 
ed  to  the  cause  of  his  country.  *  *  *  *  * 

I  beg  that  you  will  not  take  the  trouble  of  writ 
ing  to  me.  *Mrs.  De  Lancey,  is  so  good  as  to  men 
tion  you  frequently  in  her  letters,  and  her  accounts 
of  your  health  make  us  very  happy. 

Mrs.  Izard  joins  me,  in  offering  most  affectionate 
regards  to  you  and  all  your  family. 

I  am,  dear  sir, 
&c.,  &c., 
RA.  IZARD. 

P.  S.  The  Congress  have  been  stigmatized,  by 
a  certain  set  of  people  here,  as  a  factious — sedi 
tious — and  illegal  meeting.  The  Barons,  who  met 
at  Runnemede,  and  the  Convention,  at  the  Revo 
lution,  had  the  same  fate.  The  liberties  of  Amer 
ica,  will  be  erected  on  the  same  basis  as  those  of 
England ;  but  I  trust  that  the  edifice  will  be  con- 

*  His  daughter. 


I  129] 

structed  of  more  substantial  materials.  I  write, 
in  full  expectation  that  there  will  be  no  accommo 
dation.  The  obstinacy  of  the  man  whom  God  in 
his  wrath,  has  sent  to  desolate  and  destroy  the 
grandeur  of  the  British  empire,  puts  all  such  pleas 
ing  hopes  to  flight.  Could  such  a  happy  event  be 
brought  about,  and  we  again  be  put  into  the  situa 
tion  we  were,  in  the  year  1763, 1  should,  for  many 
years,  prefer  it,  to  any  Constitution  that  could  be 
found. 

The  Petition,  which  is  just  presented  to  the  King, 
from  the  Congress,  leaves  it  still  in  his  power  to 
prevent  the  dismemberment  of  the  British  domin 
ions.  It  is  firm  and  manly,  and,  at  the  same  time, 
moderate  and  respectful.  It  agrees  perfectly  with 
the  old  and  excellent  maxim,  "  Suaviter  in  modo, 
fortiter  in  re"  But  his  Majesty, it  seems, is  deter 
mined  to  send  more  Troops — perhaps  Germans,  and 
is  now  brooding  over,  what  he  calls  vigorous  mea 
sures  to  subjugate  the  Colonies.  If  the  present  op 
portunity  of  a  reconciliation  be  lost — I  very  much 
fear — that  he  will  never  have  another  offered  him. 


[  130  ] 

From  John  De  Lancey,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

October  5,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

Yours,  by  the  Rosomond,  I  did  not 
receive  until  this  day.  The  enclosed  resolution  of 
the  Congress  will  show  that  I  have  not  neglected 
your  desire  relative  to  the  subject  matter  thereof.* 
I  thank  you  for  your  congratulations  on  my  being 
one  of  the  Committee,  whilst  there — I  take  it  for 
granted,  that  my  conduct  was  approved  by  a  ma 
jority  of  my  fellow-citizens,  as  they  elected  me  one 
of  their  Representatives  in  Provincial  Congress. 
In  this  situation,  I  wish  more  than  ever  for  abilities 
to  serve  my  country.  No  motive  shall  induce  me 
to  swerve  from  what  I  think  my  duty,  and  whilst 
I  make  this  the  rule  for  my  conduct,  should  I  forfeit 
the  opinion  of  any,  I  shall  still  enjoy  what  they 
cannot  deprive  me  of. 

You  may   be   assured,  that  Government  have 
been,  and  are  deceived,  with  regard  to  the  moder- 

*  With  regard  to  sending  over  his  furniture,  &c. 


[  131  ] 

ate  people  of  this  Province, — if  they  construe  an 
opposition  to  some  violent  proceedings  with  us, — 
into  an  approbation  of  the  measures  of  the  Ministry. 
It  is  from  these  moderate  people  in  particular,  that 
I  expect  a  virtuous  stand,  for  our  Constitutional 
Rights.  They,  anxious  for  a  reconciliation,  wished 
to  have  every  measure  tried,  which  would  possibly 
preserve  Peace — and  for  this  purpose,  flattered 
themselves  that  Government,  with  pleasure,  would 
have  embraced  the  opportunity  the  Assembly  of 
New- York  offered  them. 

Your  affectionate  brother, 

JOHN  DE  LANCEY. 

P.  S.  For  the  sentiments  of  the  Province,  rela 
tive  to  the  proceedings  of  the  Assembly,  I  beg 
leave  to  refer  you  to  the  gentlemen  of  New- York, 
who  were  at  the  time  here — now  in  England. 


[  132] 

From  Mr.  hard  to  William  Obrien,  Esq. 

BATH,  October  16,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

We  arrived  here  safe,  and  are  all 
very  well.  This  place  abounds  in  politicians,  and 
their  opinions,  about  public  affairs,  seem  pretty 
equally  divided. 

The  papers  will  have  informed  you  of  Captain 
Vandeput's  having  fired  on  the  city  of  New- York. 
Several  houses  in  the  neighborhood  of  Mrs.  De 
Lancey's  were  damaged,  and  three  of  Mrs.  Izard's 
Sisters,  happened,  unluckily,  to  be  in  town  for  that 
night  only.  They  were  not  hurt,  but  returned  to 
Westchester,  next  morning,  terribly  frightened. 
Captain  Vandeput  bears  an  exceedingly  good 
character,  and  therefore,  it  is  probable  he  thought 
he  was  doing  his  duty.  I  cannot,  however,  con 
ceive  what  good  purpose  it  could  answer.  The 
destruction  of  a  Town,  will  injure  the  proprie 
tors  of  houses  in  it,  but  can  have  no  effect  upon 
the  question.  Very  few,  compared  with  the  body 
of  the  people,  who  have  engaged  in  the  contest, 


[  133  ] 

have  any  property  in  the  Towns,  therefore,  private 
interest  will  not  be  so  materially  affected  by  it,  as 
to  make  it  in  the  least  possible,  that  they  will  sac 
rifice  on  that  account,  what  they  conceive  to  be 
their  dearest  rights. 

It  has  been  often  said  that  the  possession  of  the 
Maritime  Towns,  would  be  a  bridle  on  the  Colonies. 
I  was  always  of  a  different  opinion,  and  the  conduct 
of  the  inhabitants  of  Massachusetts  Bay,  shows  that 
the  preservation  of  the  Capital,  is  thought  of  little 
consequence,  when  brought  in  competition  with 
objects  of  infinitely  greater  importance.  I  do  not 
find  that  the  taking  of  Rhode  Island,  is  confirmed. 
It  is  very  likely  that  such  an  event  may  take  place, 
but  will  require,  I  believe,  more  than  six  hundred 
men  to  accomplish  it  successfully. 

I  am  sorry  to  find  that  the  papers  mention  Mr. 
Henry  Fox,  as  being  dangerously  wounded.  Gen 
erals  Howe,  Burgoyne,  Clinton,  and  Lord  Percy, 
have  been  so  often  wounded  and  killed  in  the 
newspapers,  that  I  hope  that  Lady  Susan,  does  not 
suffer  herself  to  be  alarmed.  I  shall,  on  her  ac 
count,  be  glad  to  find  the  report  groundless.  Some 
Ministerial  people  here,  amuse  themselves  with 
thinking  that  Lord  North  has  taken  Charles  Fox 
in,  and  incapacitated  him,  from  ever  sitting  in  Par 
liament.  It  seems  that  by  a  statute  made  in  the 
13 


[134] 

reign  of  George  L,  those  persons  who  are  possess 
ed  of  a  Pension  for  a  certain  number  of  years,  are 
declared  incapable  of  sitting  in  the  House  of  Com 
mons.  If  your  friend  is  included  in  this  act — his 
£1800  a  year,  for  thirty-one  years,  will  be  but  an 
indifferent  bargain.  His  sagacity  has,  I  hope,  pro 
tected  him  from  the  wiles  of  the  Treasury  Bench, 
assisted  by  Mr.  Wedderburne.  The  Bristol  Peti 
tion,  is  a  very  good  one.  The  whole  force  of  both 
parties  seems  to  have  been  exerted.  The  Address 
had  about  three  hundred  names  to  it,  and  the  Peti 
tion,  something  more.  It  is,  I  believe,  a  settled 
point,  that  the  land  tax,  this  year,  is  to  be  at  four 
shillings.  If  the  sinking  fund,  is  sufficient  to  support 
the  extraordinary  expenses  which  have  been  in 
curred,  the  landed  gentlemen,  will  vote  for  sangui 
nary  measures  without  reluctance. 

Mrs.  Izard  joins  with  me  in  compliments  to  you, 
and  Lady  Susan,  and 

I  am,  &c. 


[  135] 

From  Mr.  hard,  to  a  friend  in  Bath. 

LONDON,  October  27,  1775. 

I  was  yesterday  in  the  House  of  Commons,  and 
heard  a  very  good  debate.  A  great  part  of  the 
old  American  ground — was  trod  over  again,  and  I 
think  the  friends  of  the  Administration  do  not  seem 
in  Spirits.  Indeed,  it  would  be  very  extraordinary 
if  they  were, — under  the  oppression  of  so  much  guilt 
and  folly. 

Governor  Littleton,  was  particularly  rancorous 
against  America,  and  plumed  himself  much  on  the 
expedient  of  encouraging  the  Negroes  in  the  South 
ern  Colonies,  to  drench  themselves  in  the  blood  of 
their  masters.  The  Duke  of  Grafton,  voted  with 
the  Minority,  and  Mr.  Fitzroy  with  the  Adminis 
tration.  The  Regiment  of  Dragoons,  and  the  Vice 
Chamberlainship  are  too  valuable  to  be  given  up. 

Government  are  determined  to  send  a  Commis 
sioner  to  America  to  treat  of  pacification.  Wheth 
er  the  Commissioners  are  to  be  the  Governors,  the 
Generals,  or  persons  sent  expressly  for  the  purpose 
of  treating  from  England,  is  not  known ;  neither  is 
it  known,  with  whom  they  are  to  treat.  If  they 


L  136] 

attempt  to  treat  with  any  body  but  the  Congress, — 
they  will  strangle  their  negotiation  in  its  Infancy, — 
and  the  Commissioners,  ought  certainly  to  be  sent 
expressly  from  this  Country.  The  Governors,  and 
Generals  already  there,  are  known  to  be  unfriend 
ly  to  them.  Confidence  in  the  good  intentions  of 
the  parties,  is  absolutely  necessary,  before  any 
thing  good  can  be  expected  from  a  Negotiation. 
It  is  fully  believed,  that  both  Canada  and  Halifax, 
are  in  the  hands  of  the  Provincials.  The  Ministry' 
last  night,  challenged  Lord  North  to  say,  that]  they 
were  not, — and  he  was  silent. 


Prom  the  same  to  the  same. 

LONDON,  October  30,  1775. 

There  are  accounts  in  town  of  a  skirmish  in 
Canada,  between  some  Canadians  and  Regulars  on 
one  side,  and  some  Provincials  on  the  other, — in 
which  the  latter  received  the  greatest  damage.  This 
has  gained  so  mueh  credit  in  Town,  that  I  believe 


C  137] 

it  to  be  true,  but  do  not  think  there  were  sufficient 
numbers  engaged  to  make  the  action  at  all  decisive. 

The  Duke  of  Grafton's  apostacy,  inclines  people 
to  suspect  a  change  of  the  Administration.  I  can 
not  flatter  myself  with  the  hope,  that  so  desirable 
an  event  will  take  place.  It  is,  however,  certainly 
in  contemplation,  to  send  Commissioners  to  treat 
in  America  about  a  pacification.  I  am  sure,  that 
if  these  Commissioners  expect  to  treat  with  any 
body  of  men  in  America  but  the  Continental  Con 
gress, — they  may  save  themselves  the  trouble  of 
going  over. 

I  thought  it  might  do  good  to  communicate  this 
to  the  Ministry,  and,  therefore,  I  wrote  a  note  this 
morning  to  Sir  Gilbert  Elliot,  and  desired  him  to 
appoint  a  time  when  I  might  have  half  an  hour's 
conversation  with  him.  He  desired  to  see  me  im 
mediately,  and  I  gave  him  fully  my  opinion  on  the 
subject,  which  he  said,  he  thought  well  of,  and 
promised  to  communicate  to  Lord  North,  God 
knows,  whether  I  may  have  done  any  good.  Min 
isters,  generally,  think  themselves  too  wise  to  be 
instructed.  I  have,  however,  done  my  duty, 

More  Troops,  are  certainly  to  be  sent  out,  with 

the  intention  of  giving  efficacy  to  the  negotiation. 

I  wish  it  may  not  operate  in  a  different  manner  and 

be  construed  by  the  Congress  into  an  intention  of 

13* 


[  138  ] 

intimidating.  This  opinion,  I  communicated  to 
him.  He  said  that  he  hoped  not,  as  Government 
had  no  such  design. 

Give  my  compliments  to  our  friends  in  the  Cres 
cent,  and  do  not  mention  Sir  G.  E s  name. 


From  the  same  to  the  same. 

LONDON,  November  3, 1775. 

When  I  wrote  to  you  last,  I  had  the  most  pleas 
ing  prospect  of  an  accommodation.  I  told  you  of 
an  interview  I  had  had  with  Sir  Gilbert  Elliot. 
From  that,  and  from  Lord  North's  declarations,  in 
the  House  of  Commons,  I  had  no  doubt,  but  that 
the  Government,  intend  ed^  bringing  this  unhappy 
contest,  to  a  conclusion. 

Some  diabolical,  invisible  agent,  has  been  at 
work — and  obliged  Lord  North,  to  contradict  every 
thing  he  said  a  few  nights  ago.  He  said  last  night, 
that  he  had  no  thoughts  of  an  accommodation, — and 
whatever  construction  gentlemen  might  have  put 
upon  his  words, — he  thought  that  the  whole  force 


C  139  ] 

of  this  Country,  ought  to  be  exerted  against  Amer 
ica.  Notwithstanding  this  declaration, —  I  am  fully 
of  opinion,  that  Commissioners  will  be  appointed  to 
treat  with  America,  and  that  they  will  treat  with 
a  Continental  Congress. 

Perhaps  a  new  one  will  be  appointed  by  the 
Assemblies  for  the  purpose  of  treating  with  the 
Commissioners.  If  this  should  be  the  case, — the 
same  members  will  undoubtedly  be  re-chosen. 
The  contemptible  idea  of  carrying  the  Olive 
Branch — and  the  Sword  together,  is  not  yet  aban 
doned.  If  a  large  body  of  Troops,  are  to  accompa 
ny  the  Commissioners,— I  am  persuaded,  that  instead 
of  giving  energy  to  the  Negotiation,  as  the  Ministry 
expect,  they  will  produce  no  other  effect  but  that 
of  irritation.  If  foreign  assistance,  has  been  offer 
ed,  (which  is  very  much  doubted,)  it  is  probably 
from  Spain.  Even  the  present  Ministry,  will  not, 
I  think,  venture  to  accept  of  Spaniards.  The  folly 
and  wickedness  of  the  ruling  powers  of  this  Coun 
try,  forbid  me  to  indulge  in  any  very  sanguine 
hopes ;  at  the  same  time,  I  cannot  help  thinking 
that  their  inability  to  prosecute  the  war  in  such  a 
manner  as  to  effect  their  purposes,  will  compel 
them,  contrary  to  their  wishes, — to  Negotiate. 

How  totally  destitute  of  sense,  is  their  present 
conduct.    They  are  now  destroying  that  confi- 


[  140  ] 

dence  which  it  is  their  interest  to  establish, — and 
which  they  will  experience  the  want  of— when  they 
begin  to  negotiate. 

I  am  so  anxious  about  the  transactions  of  Parlia 
ment,  that  I  cannot  tell  when  I  shall  return.  It  is 
now  past  one,  and  I  am  engaged  to  go  at  two,  with 
Dempster,  to  the  House  of  Commons. 


From  the  same  to  the  same. 

LONDON,  November  4,  1775. 

I  still  continue  of  opinion,  that  Commissioners 
will  be  sent  from  hence  to  America,  to  treat  of  an 
accommodation.  What  the  instructions  are  to  be, 
— is  kept  a  profound  secret.  Those  people/who  are 
fond  of  talking  Politics  and  utter  nothing  but  non 
sense,  say  that  the  Commissioners,  will  have  power 
to  do  nothing — but  grant  pardons,  to  those  who  lay 
down  their  Arms.  This  is  too  great  an  absurdity 
to  suppose. 

This  was  one  of  the  articles  I  entered  upon  with 
Sir  Gilbert  Elliot,  and  he  seemed  perfectly  sensible 


[  141  ] 

that  it  would  be  trifling  to  send  a  solemn  Commis 
sion — to  pardon  people — before  they  are  conquered. 
This  language  may  be  very  well  to  send  to  the 
Courts  of  Berlin, — Vienna — and  Versailles,  after  the 
blustering  speech  from  the  Throne  last  year  ;  but' 
I  am  persuaded,  that  an  attempt  towards  an  ac 
commodation  is  intended.  The  Ministry,  have 
blundered  so  egregiously  in  executing  everything 
hitherto,  that  their  success  in  the  present  scheme,  is 
very  doubtful. 


November  7th,  1775. 

The  Negotiation  with  America  is  an  object  of 
such  importance, — that  it  has  dwelt  exceedingly  on 
my  mind. 

I  have  been  very  uneasy  lest  one  absurd  step 
should  destroy  the  effect  of  the  whole  scheme  ;  and 
I  think,  that  the  sending  of  an  additional  number  of 
Troops,  is  as  absurd  a  step  as  can  be  taken.  I 
have  for  some  time  heard  that  the  Regiments  which 
were  to  be  sent  to  America,  were  destined  to  the 
Southward.  Within  a  day  or  two,  I  have  been  in- 


[142] 

formed  that  Dr.  North  is  appointed  to  an  office  in 
the  American  Military  Hospital, — and  that  he  un 
derstood  that  he  was  to  go  to  South  Carolina. 

Mr.  Dempster, — Mr.  Ellis, — and  some  of  my  other 
friends,  advised  me  to  see  Lord  North,  and  as  I 
was  convinced  that  if  this  plan  was  executed,  it 
would  produce  a  scene  of  blood  that  would  exas 
perate  the  Northern  Colonies  so  much,  that  they 
might  instruct  their  delegates  not  to  treat  about  an 
accommodation,  I  determined  to  wait  on  him. 

Dempster  fixed  the  time  with  him  for  this  morn 
ing,  and  I  am  just  returned  from  my  Audience. 
He  expressed  great  desire  for  peace, — and  wished 
it  to  be  made  upon  honorable  terms  to  both  par 
ties.  After  touching  upon  several  articles,  that 
probably  would,  or  would  not  be  accepted  by 
America,  I  stated  to  him  my  fears  on  the  subject 
of  sending  Troops  to  the  Southward, — and  lamented 
the  prospect  of  its  producing  a  total  disunion  of  the 
two  Countries.  He  assured  me  that  he  knew  noth 
ing  of  sending  Troops  to  that  part  of  America. 

It  is  impossible  to  mention  to  you  the  whole  of 
the  conversation  with  him, — but  I  am  happy  to  in 
form  you, — from  his  authority,  that  Commissioners 
are  to  be  sent  to  America  to  treat  about  a  pacifica 
tion, — and  not  to  offer  pardon, — as  is  absurdly  men 
tioned  in  the  King's  Speech,  to  those  who  are  not 


[143] 

yet  conquered.  Upon  my  mentioning  the  absolute 
necessity  there  was  of  treating  with  the  Congress — 
he  did  not  express  any  such  horror  of  the  idea,  as 
he  did  last  year  in  the  House  of  Commons.  Upon 
the  whole, — I  think  the  American  prospect,  seems 
more  agreeable — than  it  has  been,  for  these  two 
years. 

God  knows  how  long  it  may  last, — for  it  is  cer 
tain,  that  Lord  North,  is  not  uniform  in  his  lan 
guage  on  the  subject  of  America.  Our  great  secu 
rity  is, — that  it  is  impossible  for  their  utmost  efforts 
to  subjugate  us. 

Next  Friday,  Mr.  Burke  is  to  make  a  speech, 
and  offer  some  propositions  on  the  subject  of 
America.  Every  American  in  Town— will,  I  sup 
pose,  be  that  day  in  the  House  of  Commons. 


November  9,  1775. 

Mr.  Penn  is  to  be  examined  to-morrow,  in  the 
the  House  of  Lords,  on  the  state  of  America. 

The  Duke  of  Richmond,  and  Lord  Effingham, 
have  been  endeavoring  to  prevail  on  me  to  under- 


go  the  same  ceremony.  I  excused  myself  on  ac 
count  of  the  hesitation  m  my  speech,  which  they 
did  not  think  a  sufficient  reason. 

If  I  do  submit  to  it,  it  will  be  extremely  disa 
greeable  to  me,  and  if  I  can  get  excused — I  shall  be 
extremely  glad  to  be  so. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  the  Duke  of  Richmond. 
NEWMAN-STREET,  LONDON,  November  9,  1775. 
MY  LORD: —  j 

I  have  been  considering  the  pro 
posal  which  your  Grace  made  me,  when  I  had  the 
honor  of  seeing  you  last,— of  my  being  examined  at 
the  bar  of  the  House  of  Lords,  on  the  subject  of 
America. 

Every  man  in  the  British  Empire  who  has  spirit 
and  understanding  enough,  to  put  a  proper  value 
on  the  blessings  of  liberty, — must  be  sensible,  of  their 
obligations,  to  your  Grace, — and  the  other  Noble 
Lords,  in  Opposition, — for  their  exertions  in  favor  of 


L  H5  J 

a  people  virtuously  struggling  in  support  of  their 
constitutional  rights.  The  only  objections  that  I 
could  possibly  have  had  to  your  proposal,  I  men 
tioned,  when  you  did  me  the  honor  of  making  it 
to  me. 

If  you  continue  of  opinion  that  my  examination 
can  be  of  service  to  the  cause,  I  shall  think  it  my 
duty  to  acquiesce,  and  endeavor  to  get  the  better 
of  my  own  feelings  on  the  occasion. 

Your  Grace  will  be  so  good,  as  to  let  me  know 
what  questions  you  think  will  probably  be  asked, 
that  I  may  be  prepared. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  his  friend  in  Bath. 

LONDON,  November  7,  1775. 

I  went  yesterday  to  the  House  of  Commons,  in 
expectation  of  hearing  Mr.  Burke's  Speech — 
and  conciliatory  plan.  There  was  the  greatest 
number  of  people  collected  there  for  the  same  pur 
pose,  that  I  ever  saw.  We  were  all  disappointed. 
Charles  Fox  was  a  necessary  man  to  support  Burke. 
14 


[146] 

He  was  obliged  last  week  to  vacate  his  seat— on 
account  of  his  bad  bargain  with  Lord  North,  and 
the  return  of  the  writ  with  his  re-election,  was  ex 
pected  in  time  for  the  debate,  but  was  not. 

This  is  the  reason  why  Burke's  business  is  put 
off  till  next  Tuesday. 

From  the  Commons,  I  went  to  the  House  of 
Lords  to  hear  Penn's  examination,  which  afforded 
me  no  great  satisfaction.  The  Printer  has  done 
more  than  justice,  to  the  answers  of  the  witness. 

There  have  been  some  new  arrangements  in  the 
Administration,  but  nothing  done  that  can  afford 
us  any  pleasure.  Lord  George  Germaine  is  cer 
tainly  our  Secretary  of  State,  instead  of  Lord 
Dartmouth,  who  has  the  Privy  Seal. 

I  am  very  desirous  of  having  an  interview  with 
Lord  George,  and  shall  endeavor  to  bring  it  about 
as  soon  as  possible.  He  is  so  much  taken  up, 
that  it  is  impossible  to  effect  it  immediately.  I 
shall  have  done  everything  in  my  power  to  pre 
vent  the  mischief  that  Scotland  wishes  to  bring  on 
our  country — and,  though  nothing  good  should  be 
the  consequence  of  my  endeavors,  I  shall  have  the 
satisfaction,  at  least,  of  having  acted  properly. 

Lord  Littleton,  at  the  opening  of  the  session, 
seemed  inclined  to  join  the  minority  in  favor  of 


[  147] 

America.     His  abilities  are  considerable,  and  the 
Ministry  have  availed  themselves  of  them. 

They  made  him,  yesterday,  Chief  Justice  in 
Eyre,  and  last  night  he  made  the  most  violent  and 
wicked  speech,  against  America,  that  could  possi 
bly  be  pronounced.  All  this  seems  to  tend  to  de 
stroy  what  the  Administration  appear  to^  wish  to 
bring  about — a  negotiation. 


November  13,  1775. 

The  appointment  of  Lord  George  Germaine,  has 
given  me  a  good  deal  of  uneasiness. 

I  do  not  think  that  the  King  could  have  chosen 
so  improper,  and  so  offensive  a  man. 

He  is  one  of  the  proudest  and  most  insolent 
men  in  the  world,  and  though  an  Englishman—is 
entirely  devoted  to  the  Scotch.  Their  servility 
made  them  fit  instruments  to  flatter  his  pride — and 
vanity  when  he  commanded  the  English  Troops  in 
Germany — and  his  partiality  to  them  has  always 
been  notorious. 

This  does  not  promise  well  for  America.    When- 


[  148  ] 

ever  a  Government  becomes  vacant,  we  shall  cer 
tainly  have  it  filled  with  a  gentleman  from  the 
north. 

I  dined  yesterday  at  Mr.  Ellis's ;  Lord  Effing- 
ham  was  there,  and  you  may  imagine  we  had  a 
great  deal  of  Politics.  I  am  thoroughly  convinced 
that  he  has  acted  upon  principle.  If  a  few  more 
of  his  order,  would  do  so  likewise — we  should  be  a 
happy  and  united  people. 

Nobody  knows  anything  about  the  Troops  under 
General  Howe.  Some  think  he  will  stay  in  Bos 
ton  this  winter,  others  imagine  not. 


November  15,  1775. 

I  promised  myself  the  pleasure  of  being  of  your 
party,  at  Mrs.  Macaulay's,  next  Saturday — but 
Lord  George  Germaine  has  put  it  out  of  my  power. 
Dempster  has  engaged  these  three  days  to  fix  a 
time  with  him  for  my  visit — but  has  not  been  able 
to  get  an  opportunity.  It  is  possible,  that  I  may 
be  of  service — and  as  I  have  taken  the  trouble  of 
discussing  the  point  with  Lord  North — and  Sir  Gil- 


bert  Elliot — I  should  not  choose  to  leave  town  with 
out  having  a  little  conversation  with  the  new  Sec 
retary  of  State. 

To-morrow,  Burke  is  to  offer  his  plan,  and 
Powel  is  to  put  the  previous  question  upon  it. 

I  shall  be  very  desirous  of  hearing  his  speech, — 
but  am  much  afraid  that  it  is  resolved  not  to  allow 
any  strangers  to  be  admitted. 

Whenever  the  Ministry  expect  to  have  the  worst 
of  the  argument — they  exclude  people — under  pre^ 
tence  of  the  House  being  too  hot.  If  I  am  not  ad 
mitted,  it  will  be  a  great  disappointment  to  me. 


November  17,  1775. 

I  went  yesterday,  to  the  House  of  Commons, 
and  am  sorry  to  inform  you  that  the  infamous  Min* 
isterial  measure  of  admitting  no  strangers,  was 
rigorously  executed.  The  Dutchess  of  Devonshire, 
and  two  of  her  female  friends,  were  kept  in  a  very 
unpleasant  situation,  in  the  Lobby,  three  quarters 
of  an  hour.  Repeated  applications  were  made  in 
her  favor  to  the  Speaker — without  success.  It  was 
14* 


L  150  ] 

thought  that  she  would  have  been  obliged  to  have 
returned,  but  beauty  proved  too  powerful  an  advo 
cate.  I  believe  no  other  strangers  were  admitted. 
It  is  very  probable  they  were  heartily  tired  in  half 
an  hour. 

Nothing  is  settled  yet  about  my  visit  to  Lord 
George  Germaine.  Dempster  wrote  me  the  en 
closed  note  to-day.  I  send  it  as  I  think  you  will 
be  glad  to  see  it. 

"  A  very  good  debate  last  night — division,  two 
hundred  and  ten — to  one  hundred  and  five.  Lord 
North,  told  us,  he  would  move  for  the  Repeal  of 
all  the  Boston  and  Fishery  Authorative  Laws. 
Lord  G.  G.  talked  both  big  and  small.  I  still 
hope  for  peace." 

I  do  not  know  what  he  means  by  Authorative 
Laws.  It  is,  however,  not  unpleasant  to  hear  them 
talk  of  repealing  any  of  the  offensive  Laws,  imme 
diately  after  the  arrival  of  General  Gage.  This 
looks  as  if  he  did  not  give  Administration,  any 
very  agreeable  intelligence. 

It  is  still  said,  that  Troops  are  to  be  senUo  South 
Carolina.  I  have  exerted  myself  to  prevent  it,  and 
shall  endeavor  to  convince  Lord  George  Germaine, 
of  the  probability  of  the  negotiations  being  de 
stroyed  by  such  a  measure. 


November  18,  1775. 

General  Washington's  address  to  the  Canadians — 
which  you  will  see  in  the  Ledger  of  to-day, 
pleases  me  much. 

Dempster  tells  me  the  Duchess  of  Devonshire, 
and  her  friends,  staid  in  the  Gallery  of  the  House 
of  Commons  during  the  whole  debate  which  lasted— 
till  half  past  four  in  the  morning. 


From  Thomas  Lynch,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

November  19,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

Having  much  to  say  to  you,  I  begin, 
before  I  certainly  know  how  this  is  to  reach  you. 

I  had  your  favor  by  a  young  gentleman  whom 
I  shall  take  every  opportunity  to  endeavor  at  least 
to  serve.  I  think  it  is  abundantly  his  due. 


[  152  ] 

You  have  had  accounts  of  the  battle  at  Bunker's 
Hill ;  the  loss  on  the  part  of  the  Regulars,  is  near 

the  truth  ;  on  the  other,  greatly  exaggerated.    *  * 

****         *         *         *•*-# 

You  wonder,  with  many  others,  that  an  Army 
so  superior  as  ours,  have  not  recovered  Boston — 
and  demolished  the  little  Army  of  Rebels  therein. 
You  know,  Boston — recollect  my  friend  that  it  is 
surrounded  by  the  sea,  except  a  very  narrow  cause 
way  ; — that  the  enemy  is  master  of  the  sea — that 
this  only  entrance  by  land  is  fortified  to  the  ut 
most  extent  of  art — work  within  work — defended  by 
Cannon,  and  rendered  impassable  by  deep  diches — 
that  the  whole  city  is  commanded  by  two  steep, 
and  high  hills — each  of  which  is  fortified  on  the 
ascent,  and  a  little  Citadel  at  the  top,  with  guns 
that  reach  everywhere.  Recollect  that  thirty-two 
Battalions  of  choice  British  Troops,  (or  half  her 
Army)  occupy  those  works — that  this  Army  has 
every  advantage  that  Arms — Artillery— and  plenty 
of  ammunition  can  give — add  their  being  under 
the  best  Officers  Britain  can  boast — and  add,  that 
our  men  are  young  Soldiers,  and  want  that  steadi 
ness  necessary  to  the  attack  of  Trenches  with  bare 
Musketry — which  long  discipline  alone  can  give. 
Consider  that  the  business  of  the  Enemy  is  to  sub 
due  America,  and  while  they  are  imprisoned  in 


[  153  ] 

Boston,  their  errand  stands  still, — that  they  are 
every  day  perishing  by  disease — want — and  deser 
tion — all  which  must  increase — as  winter  cuts  off 
their  resources  by  sea — and  I  mistake  if  you  will 
not  own,  that  our  Generals  act  wisely — in  not  risk 
ing  a  repulse — or  loosing  a  number  of  brave  men — 
in  obtaining  that — which  a  little  time  must  give 
them,  without  loss — and  make  total — and  conclusive 
when  it  happens. 

Should  Howe,  be  driven  to  his  ships  in  summer — 
he  will  easily  land  in  some  other  part,  and  begin 
new  trouble.  Ice  prevents  all  this. 

Be  assured,  that  our  strength  at  Boston,  by 
means  of  Fortifications,  is  such — as  leaves  no  doubt 
of  our  security.  I  wish  the  strength  of  Howe's 
Army — joined  to  all  that  we  are  threatened  with — 
next  year — were  to  try  an  attack  there — and  that 
the  fate  of  the  War  depended  on  the  event.  I 
should  think  fifty  thousand  men  would  inevitably 
be  defeated  in  such  an  attempt.  I  have  been  late 
ly  at  Cambridge,  and  speak  from  what  I  have 
seen.  I  have  also,  very  lately,  been  at  our  Camp 
on  the  Lakes. 

Have  we  not,  my  dear  sir,  great  reason  to  bless 
God,  for  all  his  abundant  mercies,  on  this  occasion. 
Consider  America,  lulled  in  a  long  state  of  peace, 
and  security — where  were  we  to  look  for  Armies — 


[  154  J 

more  especially  for  Generals— attacked  suddenly, 
and  under  cover  of  friendship,  and  protection — by 
the  most  powerful  nation  in  the  world,  who,  not 
content  with  her  superiority  of  strength — calls  in 
all  other  nations  to  her  assistance,  uses  art — as  well 
as  force — to  provoke  attacks  from  our  neighbours, 
calls  in  Savages  to  ravage  our  frontiers — to  massa 
cre  our  defenceless  women — and  children — offers 
every  incitement  to  our  Slaves  to  rebel — and  mur 
der  their  masters — ravage  and  burn  our  unfortified 
sea-coast.  Behold,  on  the  sudden,  this  distressed, 
unprepared  people  roused — behold  Armies  raised 
— and  still  more  strange — under  the  command  of 
veteran  Officers — not  only  securing  our  Enemy 
from  ravaging  our  country — but  carrying  War  into 
every  place — where  an  Enemy  can  be  found. 

The  people  so  earnestly  pressed  to  attack  us — re 
fusing  every  act — every  force  ;  our  Indians  keeping 
up  peace,  against  all  acts — used  to  detach  them  from 
us,  by  lies — calumnies — and  interest.  Our  Slaves  re 
maining  faithful — against  the  promise — even  of  liber- 
ty,dearest — best — of  all  rewards.  Behold  two  entire 
British  Battalions,  for  the  first  time  in  her  history — 
prisoners  of  war — besides  those  in  Boston — nay, 
what  is  still  stranger — the  coast  of  New  England — 
scoured  by  Privateers — unmolested,  and  supplies  to 
the  army  cut  off.  Could  our  most  sanguine  hopes, 


[  155  ] 

have  gone  so  far  last  spring  ?  Yet  blessed  be  God — 
all  this  is  the  case. 

t-.  Abused — belied— discarded — destroyed — with  a 
rage,  and  malice  altogether  unknown,  to  civilized,  or 
even  barbarous  nationslof  this  day — can  it  be  credit 
ed — that  America  still  languishes  for  reconciliation  ? 
Thus  impregnable — thus  prosperous,  in  every  at 
tempt — that  she  rises  not  a  single  jot  in  her  terms 
of  accommodation — that  she  even  in  sight  of  her 
unoffending  towns,  now  in  ashes — demands  not  res 
titution — nor  reimbursement?  Surely  our  worst 
enemies,  must  confess — that  of  all  people — we  are 
the  most  placable — mild — and  forgiving.  That  this 
is  the  case,  you  may  be  sure — no  new  demand 
would  be  made  on  our  part.  Peace  and  reconcilia 
tion,  upon  the  one  condition,  we  have  ever  asked 
it,  viz. :  Restitution  of  Rights — would  be  received 
as  the  greatest  blessing. 

I  objected  when  our  last  petition  was  before 
Congress — that  using  such  lowly,  and  humiliating 
expressions,  would  produce,  in  narrow  minds,  an 
opinion  of  our  weakness.  I  was  not  mistaken.  I 
find  that  thought  in  papers — and  letters — from  the 
other  side — as  if  boasting  were  a  proof  of  anything 
but  the  bully.  ****** 

From  all  this  you  will  find  such  a  departure 
from  every  rule  of  war — among  even  barbarous 


[  156] 

states,  as  very  little  entitle  them  to  such  terms,  as 
you  will  observe  them  receive — from  our  gallant 
General,  in  the  enclosed  Capitulation — everyarticle 
of  which  is  religiously  observed  on  our  side. 

Let  them  boast  of  their  greatness—of  the  arts  of 
Kingcraft — of  Policy — be  it  ours,  to  be  faithful— hu 
mane — and  affectionate  to  our  prostrate  Foes — let 
us  treat  them  like  the  Individuals,  of  a  Nation,  with 
whom  we  do  not  consider  ourselves  at  war— but 
rather  as  Defenders  from  Tyranny — andOppresion. 
Should  the  Slaves  of  those  Monsters,  add  Injury  to 
oppression,  I  hope  we  shall  always  act,  like  brave 
— humane — and  Polite — Victors. 

It  gives  me  gseat  pleasure  to  be  able  to  enclose 
you  an  account  of  the  reduction  of  Montreal — and 
the  greater  part  of  Canada.  * 

Pray  remark  that  no  rejoicings  have  been  per 
mitted — though  the  advantages  we  have  gained  are 
so  important — even  the  consideration  of  their  hav 
ing  been  obtained  with  so  little  Blood — has  not  been 
sufficient,  to  make  us  forget — that  we  were  con 
quering  our  Brethren — let  them  blush  who  have 
forgotten  this. 

I  wish  Britain  would  adopt  the  measure — of  call 
ing  a  Convention  of  Delegates,  from  the  Assemblies 
of  each  Colony — by  act  of  Parliament.  I  shall 


L  157] 

readily  adopt  the  measure,  we  quarrel  not  about 
words. 

While  you  are  at  home,  can't  you  send  us  ship 
loads  of  Powder  ;  Our  Saltpetre  does  not  come  in 
fast  enough ;  'twill  fetch  a  great  price,  and  be  a 
very  beneficial  Trade,  to  France,  Holland,  or  any 
other  Nation,  who  will  get  valuable  returns,  in 
Provisions  for  their  West  Indies. 

If  you  meet  with  inaccuracies  you'll  pardon  them 
in  so  long  a  letter,  from  one  who  really  has  not  an 
hour  in  the  day  at  his  own  disposal.  *  *  *  * 

I  fear  I  shall  stay  here  all  winter.  I  will  not 
desert  the  Assembly  here,  while  it  lasts,  be  the 
season  ever  so  disagreeable,  or  my  stay  inconve 
nient. 

I  shall  be  always  happy  in  your  Friendship  and 
correspondence,  and  shall  certainly  answer  every 
letter  I  receive,  which  was  not  the  case  of  that, 
sent  before  the  last. 

My  family's  most  respectful  compliments,  attend 
you,  and  yours.  You  know  the  hand  of 

Dear  sir,  yours  sincerely  and 

Affectionately. 

P.  S.  I  was  in  hopes,  we  should  have  availed 
ourselves  of  your  abilities,  and  Integrity.     Don't 
suspect  I  asked  it.    Could  you  sound,  and  find  out, 
15 


1158] 

the  sentiments  of  those  who  have  the  power  to 
help  us,  particularly  of  those,  who  could  send  us 
necessaries,  for  war,  and  coarse  goods,  in  exchange 
for  our  Productions.  No  Custom  House  dare 
touch  them,  and  Men-of-War,  are  easily  avoided, 
the  Trade  would  be  amazingly  profitable. 

Ten  of  the  Troops  from  Ireland  are  arrived ; 
there  has  been  a  dreadful  storm,  which  is  said  to 
have  destoyed  many  of  the  Transports,  with  almost 
the  whole  Fish,  and  Fishery  of  Newfoundland. 

Howe's  Army  must  be  very  weak,  for  they  suf 
fered  Lee  to  take  possession  of  Cobble  Hill,  a  few 
days  ago — which  being  within  half  cannon  shot,  of 
their  lines,  and  commanding  Lechmere's  Point, 
where  they  last  landed — gave  them  as  good  an  op 
portunity  as  they  could  wish — of  forcing  our  Army 
to  a  Battle,  on  equal  terms — this  Point  being  full  as 
near,  and  as  much  exposed  to  their  Artillery,  as 
ours ;  strong  necessity  urging  them  also,  want  of 
Provisions,  having  brought  on  scurvy,  and  other 
dreadful  diseases,  and  their  lines  thinning  every 
day,  by  death,  and  desertion,  all — could  not  bring 
them  out ;  Deserters  say,  there  is  much  discon 
tent  among  the  men,  and  that  the  Officers,  are 
obliged  to  lie — in  order  to  quiet  them,  by  assuring 
them,  of  an  immediate  Reinforcement  of  three 


[  159  ] 

thousand  Men — when  they  know,  none  such  is 
coming. 

I  had  the  pleasure  of  entertaining  the  Command 
ing  Officer  of  St.  John's  yesterday,  and  of  ordering 
the  disposition  of  two  Regiments  of  British  Troops. 
While  we  are  called,  and  treated  as  Barbarians, — 
their  prisoners  have  every  indulgence  possible.  In 
this,  may  we  always  be  their  superiors. 

The  ways  are  at  this  season,  so  impracticable, — 
that  we  have  no  late  accounts  from  Quebec. 

Gun-lock  makers,  in  any  number — skilful  Salt 
petre  makers — and  Powder  makers,  would  be  very 
acceptable — they  are  to  be  got  in  Germany. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  his  friend  in  Bath. 

LONDON,  November  21,  1775. 

The  appointment  is  at  last  fixed  with  Lord 
George  Germaine.  I  desired  Mr.  Townsend,  who 
is  his  intimate  friend,  and  who  undertook  to  settle 
the  matter,  to  let  it  be  as  soon  as  possible,  as  I 
was  anxious  to  leave  London ;  Lord  George  con- 


[  160  ] 

siders  nobody's  convenience  but  his  own — and  I  am 
to  see  him  next  Thursday. 

The  Debates  in  the  House  of  Commons  last 
night,  have  settled  the  matter  very  fully  in  my 
mind,  that  Peace,  is  not  intended.  The  King  is 
determined  upon  another  Campaign.  I  am  so 
clearly  convinced  of  this — that  if  the  interview  with 
Lord  George,  had  not  been  agreed  upon,  at  my 
desire — I  would  not  trouble  either  him,  or  myself 
with  the  visit. 

I  thought  they  wished  for  an  accommodation, 
and  I  think  I  could  have  pointed  out  the  only 
means  of  effecting  it ;  but  I  now  really  believe, 
that  they  are  absurd  enough  to  expect  that  all  the 
Nation  will  join  the  Ministry,  against  America — as 
soon  as  she  has  refused  to  accept,  of  the  terms 
they  intend  to  offer — and  which  Lord  Bute,  and 
Sir  Gilbert  Elliot,  know  will  most  certainly  be  re 
jected. 

I  shall  leave  town  as  soon  as  I  can — after  my  bu 
siness  with  the  Secretary  of  State  is  finished. 

Report  says,  that  Lord  William  Campbell,  has 
been  endeavoring  to  raise  the  back  settlers  of 
Carolina,  and  promised  them  that  a  body  of  Troops 
would  join  them.  God  knows  whether  this  is  true — 
but  it  is  certain,  that  he  has  been  obliged  to  take 
up  his  residence,  on  board  the  Man-of-War,  in  the 


L  161  ] 

Harbour — and  the  Inhabitants  of  Charleston  have 
taken  possession  of  Fort  Johnson — are  fortifying  it, 
and  two  other  places  at  the  entrance  of  the  Har 
bour — and  seem  determined  to  oppose  the  entrance 
of  the  Troops. 

It  is  generally  believed  here,  that  some  Regi 
ments  are  to  be  sent  soon  to  Charleston. 

Governor  Tryon,  did  not  think  himself  safe,  in 
New- York— and  is  certainly  on  board  the  Asia 
Man-of-War.  I  am  exceedingly  sorry  for  this — as 
I  do  not  find  that  he  has  in  any  instance,  acted  an 
unfriendly  part  towards  America. 


November  23,  1775. 

I  have  had  my  interview  to-day  of  Lord  George 
Germaine — and  met  with  a  very  polite  reception. 

I  told  him  that  I  had  been  desirous  of  having 
some  conversation  with  him,  on  the  subject  of 
America,  ever  since  his  appointment,  to  the  Office 
of  Secretary  of  State  ;  but  that  had  I  known  the 
intentions  of  Government,  as  well  as  I  have  done, 
15* 


[  162  ] 

since  Lore  North,  made  his  last  speech — I  should 
not  have  troubled  him  with  a  visit. 

He  seemed  to  think  there  was  no  more  occasion 
for  me  to  be  alarmed  now,  than  before — and  made 
many  declarations  of  his  desire  for  peace.  I  be 
lieve  he  wishes  it — but  at  the  same  time,  I  am  sure 
that  such  steps  are  pursuing,  as  will  retard  a  paci 
fication,  if  not  render  it  impracticable. — I  mean  the 
sending  of  Troops  to  the  Southward. 

I  have  exerted  myself  accordingly,  to  prevent 
their  being  sent  to  Carolina,  and  shall  be  happy  to 
hear  of  their  destination  being  altered. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  Arthur  Lee,  Esq. 

BATH,  December  7,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

The  newspapers  abound  in  arti 
cles  of  a  very  serious,  and  interesting  nature. 
Adams'  treachery—the  lines  at  Bunker  Hill  forced 


[  163] 

— Frigates  burnt — Battles  in  Canada—Carleton 
wounded,  &c. 

You  promised  to  inform  me  if  anything  of  con 
sequence  happened. — As  you  have  been  silent,  I 
conclude  these  events  have  been  anticipated — those 
I  mean,  that  are  favorable  to  America. 

That  they  will  happen  during  the  course  of  the 
winter,  I  am  fully  persuaded. 

The  King's  speech,  will  most  certainly  put  the 
whole  Continent  into  a  flame. 

The  report  respecting  Adams,  I  look  upon  as  a 
piece  of  calumny.  I  do  not  doubt  they  will  attempt 
to  bribe  him — but  I  should  think  without  effect.  If 
they  were  to  succeed,  I  do  not  see  what  great 
good  he  could  do  them.  He  has  now  great  influ 
ence  it  is  true — but  that  would  cease,  the  moment 
he  began  to  speak — or  act — contrary  to  his  usual 
professions. 

The  Message  to  the  House  of  Commons  of  Ire 
land,  about  the  four  thousand  men,  is  extraordinary. 

The  Royal  word  pledged  that  they  shall  be 
taken  into  English  pay — and  likewise  that  the  Hes 
sians—and  Bounswickers,  shall  be  so,  without  con 
sulting  the  British  Parliament — shows  that  the  Gov 
erning  powers  of  this  country,  have  great  confi 
dence  in  their  men. 

They  confide  not  only  in  their  Loyalty,  and  at- 


t  164] 

tachment — but  also  in  their  insensibility  to  injuries, 
and  insults.  With  regard  to  the  Irish  Parliament, 
corrupted  as  they  are — yet  they  will  not  approve 
of  the  introduction  of  German  Troops  into  their 
Country. 


From  Edward  Rutledge,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 
PHILADELPHIA,  December  8,  1775. 
MY  DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  should  have  wrote  you  fre 
quently,  and  fully,  had  I  had  the  least  reason,  to 
imagine  that  you  would  have  been  in  England  at 
this  day.  But  your  own  letters,  and  general  re 
port — induced  me  to  believe,  that  immediately 
upon  your  return  to  London,  you  would  have  pre 
pared  for  a  voyage  to  your  Native  Country — to 
act — and  suffer  in  the  Common  Cause. 

Let  this  then  be  my  apology  for  silence — un 
merited  entirely  on  your  part,  and  far  from  inten 
tional  offence  on  mine.  Permit  me  to  add  further, 


[  165  ] 

that  your  residing  abroad,  at  least  for  a  time — will, 
in  my  opinion,  be  of  more  service  than  returning 
to  America. 

You  will  receive  by  this  conveyance  a  procla 
mation  issued  by  Lord  Dunmore — tending  in  my 
judgment,  more  effectually  to  work  an  eternal 
separation  between  Great  Britain  and  the  Colonies, 
— than  any  other  expedient,  which  could  possibly 
have  been  thought  of. 

Indeed  my  Friend,  however  chimerical  such  an 
Event  may  appear,  to  the  feeble  understanding  of 
a  deluded  people,  it  seems  to  me  not  very  far  dis 
tant — if  the  Administration,  continue  their  wicked 
projects,  nor  in  itself  is  it  at  all  impracticable. 

I  cannot,  however,  without  much  anxiety  look 
forward.  If  all  connection  with  your  Island,  shall 
but  once  be  put  an  end  to — we  must  bid  adieu,  at 
least  for  a  numher  of  years,  to  Ease,  and  Happi 
ness. — We  launch  as  it  were  into  an  unknown 
Ocean — and  engage  in  a  Business  to  which  we  are 
entire  strangers. 

If,  on  the  other  hand,  we  fondly  continue  our 
Connection — at  a  time  when  every  Engine  of  Op 
pression  is  raised  against  us — our  Executive  will  be 
so  weak — foreign  Powers,  will  be  so  unwilling  to 
assist  us—the  Demon  of  Anarchy,  will  lay  such 
fast  hold  upon  us— that  we  may  at  last  fall  a  prey 


[  166] 

to  those  sons  of  Darkness — on  your  side  of  the 
Atlantic. 

Tell  me  then,  I  beseech  you,  (before  it  is  too 
late)  what  are  the  sentiments  of  the  English  Na 
tion — are  the  people  of  that  Country  determined 
to  force  us,  into  Independence  ?  Or  do  they  really 
imagine,  that  we  are  so  void  of  the  Feelings  of 
Humanity,  and  so  insensible  to  the  calls  of  Reason 
— as  willingly  to  submit  to  every  Insult — to  every 
Injury  ?  Do  they  expect  that  after  our  Towns 
have  been  destroyed — our  Liberties  repeatedly  in 
vaded — our  women  and  children,  driven  from  their 
Habitations — our  nearest  Relatives  sacrificed  at  the 
Altar  of  Tyranny,  our  Slaves  emancipated  for  the 
express  purpose  of  massacreing  their  Masters — can 
they,  I  say,  after  all  their  injuries — expect  that  we 
shall  return  to  our  former  connection — with  a  for 
giving,  and  cordial  Disposition. 

Surely  if  the  Administration  had  consulted  their 
friends,  the  Bishops — they  could  have  informed 
them,  that  Christian  charity — however  strongly  en 
joined  in  Holy  Writ — has  seldom,  if  ever,  extended 
so  far  in  practice. — Speaking  for  myself— I  freely 
confess,  that  I  feel  such  high  Resentment  for  the 
unmerited — and  indiscriminate  cruelties  committed 
against  the  Inhabitants  of  this  Country — that  I  do 
not  believe  I  shall  ever  forget— or  ever  forgive 


[   167  ] 

them  ;  and  so  determined  am  I  on  being  free — that 
I  will  even  quit  my  Native  Country  without  a  sigh — 
if  the  Genius  of  Liberty — shall  loose  her  Influence. 
That,  however,  I  trust  will  never  be  the  case. 

America,  indeed,  appears  to  be  the  natural  clime, 
for  Freedom — and  she  seems  to  spread  her  powers 
still  wider  and  wider.  ***** 

How  truly  vain  must  be  the  expectations  of 
those,  who  wish  to  subjugate  us — when  we  consid 
er,  that  wanting  every  sinew  of  War — we  have 
been  able  to  resist — and  baffle — their  wicked  at 
tacks. 

Let  them  reflect  that  America  engaged  in  this 
contest,  without  Arms — Ammunition — Officers — or 
money.  We  shall,  however,  soon  have  a  suffi 
cient  quantity  of  the  two  first  articles — to  do  Mr. 
Howe's  business  for  him — in  the  course  of  the  win- 
^er>  #*#**.* 

This  session  may  determine  the  Fate,  of  a  great 
Kingdom — unless  the  Parliament  improve  the  op 
portunity  now  offered  them — they  may  loose  for 
ever  their  American  Colonies.  May  God  grant 
them  Wisdom  to  discover — and  Virtue  to  pursue 
such  measures — as  may  best  tend  to  the  Establish 
ment  of  Peace,  and  Happiness.  * 

You  mnst  take  this  as  I  write  it,  for  we  are  so 
closely  engaged  in  Business — that  we  have  hardly 


L  168  ] 

time  to  eat  and  drink,  what  with  attention  in  the 
House,  and  Committees. 
I  shall  write  to  A.  L.  in  a  few  days. 
With  much  sincerity  and  affection, 

I  am,  my  dear  sir, 

Your  friend. 


From  John  Strange,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

VENICE,  December  9,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  should  be  quite  ashamed  to  acknow 
ledge  so  late  the  favor  of  your  obliging  letter  of  10th 
June  last  from  London — had  I  not  delayed  my  an 
swer  from  a  warrantable  notice. — You  may  re 
member  I  promised  to  make  enquiries  for  you 
about  the  Vol.  of  Swiss  Bridges,  published  by  the 
Bishop  of  Deny. 
I  wrote,  therefore,  to  his  Lordship  about  it,  but 


C  169] 

having  never  received  any  answer,  I  conclude  he 
is  not  at  Derry,  and  will  no  longer  defer  answer 
ing  your  letter,  though  I  am  sorry  at  the  same 
time,  that  I  can  give  you  no  farther  information 
about  the  book.  I  suppose  it  published  by  his 
Lordship,  and  only  distributed  among  his  friends, 
but  very  likely  it  may  be  vendible,  and  to  be  had 
of  the  London  Booksellers. 

It  is  a  large  but  thin  Folio,  printed  at  Dublin,  and 
entitled  Plans  and  Elevations  of  Bridges,  in  Swit 
zerland,  fyc.  fyc.  I  hope  you  will  be  able  to  meet 
with  it  easily. 

Your  observations  about  the  state  of  American 
Affairs,  seem  to  me  very  just.  I  heartily  wish,  for 
the  sake  of  both  Countries,  that  there  was  a  pros 
pect  of  a  speedy  and  substantial  accommodation. 

We  were  happy  to  hear  you  and  Mrs.  Izard 
were  well,  and  had  so  good  a  journey. 

You  surprised  me  with  your  account  of  the 
Elector  Palatine's  Collection  of  Pictures,  at  Man- 
heim,  which  I  never  saw.  The  famous  one  of 
Dasseldorp,  I  saw  formerly,  and  admired  chiefly 
for  the  Rubens,  and  Wanderwerfs,  and  thought 
the  Elector's  principal  treasures,  in  that  way,  were 
centered  there.  Should  I  ever  pass  near  Man- 
heim,  I  will  certainly  visit  that  Collection  also,  upon 
your  recommendation. 

16 


[  170  ] 

Mrs.  Strange  and  I  are  very  sensible  of  your 
and  Mrs.  Izard's  obliging  attentions.  Thank  God, 
we  both  enjoy  much  better  health  than  lately. 
We  beg  our  best  compliments  and  wishes,  and 
that  you  will  believe  me  to  be,  with  all  truth  and 
regard, 

Dear  sir, 

Your  very  obedient, 

Humble  servant, 
JOHN  STRANGE. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  John  Watts,  Esq. 

BATH,  December  12,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 


This  place  contains  many  Politicians — some  for, 
and  some  against  us.  The  adverse  party  report 
that  the  Provincial  Army,  is  deserting,  and  that 
they  are  starved  with  cold  and  hunger. 

One  man  said  the  other  day  that  he  was  inform- 


ed  from  good  authority,  that  Washington's  Troops 
had  no  Cattle,  but  what  they  received  from  the 
French  West  India  Islands. 

Though  we  are  here  something  further  to  the 
Westward,  we  are  not  all  better  informed  than 
they  are  at  St.  James*.  As  soon  as  the  King's 
Speech  gets  to  America,  I  am  of  opinion,  it  will 
warm  them  as  completely,  as  w  the  best  suit  of 
Clothes,  and  a  Great  Coat  into  the  bargain. 

It  is  fortunate  for  America,  that  the  Governing 
powers  of  this  Country,  have  had  as  much  folly  as 
wickedness  in  their  conduct 

Mrs.  Izard  joins  me  in  offering  affectionate  re 
gards  to  you. 


From  Mr  hard  to  Henry  Laurens,  Esq. 

BATH,  December  20,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

All  ideas  of  accommodation  seem 
to  have  vanished,  which  I  am  most  sincerely  sorry 
for.  The  people,  whose  opinion  the  King  is  de- 


[m] 

termined  to  follow,  still  persuade  him,  that  the  op 
position  of  America,  is  nothing  but  a  faction. 

His  eyes  will  not  be  opened,  until  it  is  too  late. 

I  shall  avoid  entering  fully  into  Politics,  because 
it  is  very  probable  my  letters  may  be  opened  at 
the  Post-Office. 

I  fear,  exceedingly,  that  America  will  be  driven 
by  the  folly  of  this  Country,  to  declare  herself  In 
dependent.  The  Bill  which  is  now  depending  in 
the  House  of  Lords,  to  destroy  the  American 
Shipping,  will  call  forth  unusual  exertions. 

Some  Lords,  have  entered  an  excellent  Protest 
against  it — drawn  up  by  the  Duke  of  Richmond — 
which  I  send  you  by  this  opportunity. 

You  will  find,  by  reading  the  whole  newspaper, 
which  contains  it,  how  ill-informed  the  Ministry 
are,  with  regard  to  the  transactions  in  America. 

The  Gazette,  which  you  know  is  the  Oracle  of 
the  Court,  informs  the  public,  that  on  the  26th 
October,  the  Provincials  before  St.  Johns,  were  in 
a  very  distressed  situation,  from  sickness — deser 
tion,  &c.,  and  that  they  were  not  able  to  make  any 
impression  on  it.  Their  two  Heroes,  Carleton, 
and  Macleane,  were  to  drive  these  invaders  out  of 
the  Country.  The  news  in  the  latter  part  of  the 
paper,  which  arrived  the  next  day,  shows — how 
excellently  they  are  supplied  with  intelligence. 


[  173] 

The  accounts  from*  Virginia,  are  I  suppose  of 
equal  authenticity.  Lord  Dunmore's  two  hundred 
Shirtmen — will,  I  dare  say,  turn  out  to  be  some 
what  like  Falstaff's  Men  in  Buckram. 

It  is  astonishing  that  he  should  be  suffered  to 
parade  so  long,  with  a  single  ship,  within  the 
Capes  of  Virginia. 

I  am  sorry  to  find  that  you  have  been  engaged 
in  a  disagreeable  quarrel.  Fighting,  is  at  all  times 
an  unpleasant  thing ;  but  certainly,  under  the  pre 
sent  circumstances  of  America — the  blood  of  her 
Sons,  ought  not  to  be  shed,  by  any  hands  but 
those  of  the  common  enemy. 

The  danger  to  which  we  are  exposed,  should 
unite  all  our  Countrymen,  even  those  of  the  most 
discordant  opinions. 

I  have  just  received  your  letter  of  the  23d  Oc 
tober,  by  the  Packet,  which  arrived  above  three 
weeks  ago.  If  they  have  examined  the  contents 
of  it  at  the  Post  Office — it  has  been  done  with 
great  art — for  I  have  carefully  examined  the  seal, 
and  the  impression  remains  very  perfect.  Possi 
bly  the  detention  of  it  so  long,  has  been  owing  to 
the  direction.  I  have  not  lived  in  Berner's-street, 
since  my  return  from  Italy ;  my  circumstances 
would  not  admit  of  it.  I  have  kept  myself  within 
as  narrow  bounds  as  possible.  I  wrote  you  of  my 
16* 


[174] 

having  left  Berner's-street — and  desired  you  to  di 
rect  to  the  care  of  Messrs.  Sayre  &  Co.,  Oxford- 
street.  My  letter  I  suppose  has  miscarried. 

I  desired  particularly  in  one  of  my  letters — 
which  I  suppose  must  likewise  have  miscarried — 
that  you  would  be  so  good,  as  to  give  orders  for 
a  considerable  quantity  of  cotton  to  be  planted, 
for  clothing  my  negroes.  There  is  no  part  of 
your  last  letter,  (which  contains  a  catalogue  of 
misfortunes,)  that  affects  me  so  much,  as  the  want 
of  clothing  for  the  negroes. 

The  Congress  should  have  protected  the  Pro 
vince — from  such  a  calamity.  I  pray  to  God, 
that  you  may  be  able  to  fall  upon  some  means,  of 
supplying  the  deficiency  you  speak  of. 

You  will  I  hope  have  sent  my  Wine,  Plate,  and 
Papers,  to  Goose  Creek — as  it  is  the  public  opinion 
now  that  nothing  will  be  very  safe  in  Charles- 
town. 

Your  letter  of  the  23d  October,  is  the  only  one 
I  have  received  for  Six  months.  Your  public  em 
ployments  I  know  must  take  up  your  time  entirely. 
You  will  oblige  me  by  giving  directions  to  some 
body,  Clerk — Factor — or  Overseer — to  give  me 
some  information,  now  and  then  concerning  my 
affairs. 

If  I  find  I  can  be  of  no  service  by  staying  here, 


[  175] 

I  shall  embark  for  America,  in  the  Spring,  if  pos 
sible.  Opportunities  I  fear  will  not  offer  fre 
quently. 


From  George  Dempster,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

POLAND-STREET,  December  23,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  have  your  favor  of  the  20th.  I 
hope  you  received  mine — in  which,  however,  there 
was  nothing  material. 

The  news  of  the  taking  of  Chamblay  and  St. 
Johns,  does  not  meet  with  entire  credit  here,  for 
there  are  letters  of  the  22d  October,  from  Mon 
treal,  in  town,  which  says  nothing  of  Chamblay's 
capture — which  the  Provincial  accounts  represent 
to  have  happened  on  the  18th.  I  need  not  speak 
to  you  of  the  Geography  of  a  Country,  you  have 
travelled  over.  But  Chamblay  is  said  to  be  within 
six  hours  of  Montreal. 

You  can  imagine  the  anxiety  with  which  every- 


body  expects  the  Truth,  upon  a  subject  that  most 
people  feel  as  decisive  of  the  question  between 
America  and  England — as  far  at  least,  as  Taxation 
is  concerned. 

Nothing  transpires  concerning  the  Commission 
ers.  Would  to  God  they  were  sailed,  and  had 
begun  their  negotiations — and  even  their  Indul 
gences,  before  those  who  wish  the  Independency 
of  America — have  had  time  to  operate  upon  the 
minds  of  the  well-intentioned,  which  this  sad,  and 
last  Bill — affords  them  the  means  of  doing,  with 
too  much  plausibility. 

I  hope  Mrs.  Izard  is  well,  and  all  your  family. 
Please  remember  me  kindly  to  her,  and  believe 
me  to  be, 

Dear  sir, 

Your  affectionate  friend, 

GEORGE  DEMPSTER. 

RALPH  IZARD,  Esq. 


[  177] 

* 

From  Mr.  Izard  to  Thomas  Lynch,  Esq. 

BATH,  December  23,  1775. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  wrote  you  on  the  8th  of  last  Sep 
tember  and  cannot  congratulate  you  upon  the 
prospect  of  affairs  being  more  favorable ;  in  no 
single  instance  have  I  had  reason  to  alter  my 
opinion. 

You  will  probably  have  a  great  deal  of  trouble 
on  your  hands,  the  ensuing  summer.  The  whole 
force  of  the  Country,  is  to  be  exerted  against  you — 
but  I  trust  that  the  same  spirit,  which  checked  the 
oppressions  in  the  beginning — will  arrest  them  in 
their  progress. 

The  Ministry  talk  of  sending  Commissioners  to 
Treat  with  you — and  they  are  absurd  enough  to 
expect  that  these  Armaments,  are  to  give  efficacy 
to  the  negotiations ;  in  other  words,  they  hope  to 
intimidate  America.  I  am  sure  they  will  be  mis 
taken  ;  at  the  same  time,  I  am  so  desirous  of  an 
accommodation— that  if  anything  should  be  pro 
posed,  that  may  produce  an  honorable  pacifica- 


tion — I  should  be  sorry,  if  the  Armament  should 
prove  an  insuperable  Bar,  to  the  entering  on  a 
Treaty. 

If  it  is  expected  that  I  should  do  anything — you 
will  take  care  to  furnish  me  with  ample  powers, 
and  means.  If  you  do  not,  you  may  depend  upon 
it,  that  nothing  can  be  done. 

Lord  Dunmore  rides  triumphant  within  the 
Capes  of  Virginia — with  a  single  ship.  This  seems 
extraordinary. 

I  am  apprehensive  that  the  ignorance — pride — 
and  insolence  of  the  governing  powers  of  this 
Country — may  drive  the  Colonies,  to  the  neces 
sity  of  declaring  themselves  Independent. 

If  Peace  and  a  security  of  our  Rights,  could  be 
obtained  without  it,  I  should  be  better  pleased. 

I  have  great  confidence  in  the  Wisdom  and 
Virtue,  of  the  Congress,  and  trust  they  will  do 
that  which  is  best. 

Adieu. 

P.  S.  The  news  of  the  taking  of  St.  Johns  in 
Canada,  is  just  arrived.  I  should  be  very  happy 
if  it  would  open  the  eyes  of  the  King.  I  fear 
that  the  Men,  who  are  immediately  about  his  per 
son,  still  make  him  believe,  that  the  opposition  of 
America  is  nothing  but  a  faction. 


From  George  Mercer,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

LONDON,  December  30,  1775. 
DEAR  IZARD  : — 


I  went  to  B.  Watson  as  you  bid  me;  he  returns 
his  compliments,  and  says  he  is  happy  to  know 
you,  &c.,  are  well,  as  it  was  the  first  news  he  had 
heard  of  you — having  been  so  extremely  hurried 
since  his  return,  that  he  had  not  had  leisure,  to  en 
quire  after  his  friends. 

As  to  the  general  Fate  of  Canada,  he  speaks 
doubtfully.  ************ 
One  Arnold,  is  at  Point  Levi,  with  eight  hundred 
Men  ;  he  went  up  Kennebec  River — then  carried 
six  pieces  of  Cannon,  and  his  Batteaux — without 
assistance  earthly,  but  the  cowardly  Yankees,  to 
the  Chaudiere,  down  which  they  went  right  forth 
to  Point  Levi.  W.  says  Montgomery  borrowed 
an  excellent  Train  of  Artillery  at  St.  Johns,  and 
he  also  says,  that  the  Canadians — all  except  the 
Noblesse — are  against  Government,  and  many  have 
actually  taken  arms  against  them. 


L 


General  Carleton's  whole  Force,  was  not 
engaged  —  a  few  only  landed  —  and  some  of  the 
Batteaux  were  aground  —  when  all  the  Canadian 
Batteaux  pushed  back,  with  wonderful  alacrity. 
General  C.  was  near  being  taken.  He  lost  in 
prisoners,  wounded,  and  killed,  about  twenty-five  — 
Five  only  slain. 

It  was  not  known  who  commanded  the  Provin 
cials  ;  but  General  C  -  n's  being  obliged  to  re 
turn,  had  nearly  occasioned  the  loss,  of  Colonel 
Macleane,  and  his  whole  party.  He  was  waiting 
at  the  mouth  of  the  Sorel,  or  thereabouts  —  for  the 
General's  arrival  —  and  only  got  intelligence  of  his 
change  of  Resolution,  in  time  to  Decamp—  a  quar 
ter  of  an  hour  before  the  arrival  of  five  hundred 
Rebels  who  really  would  have  met  him. 

Colonel  Macleane  and  his  Emigrants  are  at 
Quebec.  The  returns  of  the  War  Office,  say  they 
are  two  hundred  and  sixty-seven.  General  Carle- 
ton,  has  besides  about  one  hundred  and  forty,  of 
the  7th  and  26th  Regiments  I  think. 

As  you  read  the  newspapers,  I  need  say  no 
more  about  Canada  —  it  is  greatly  feared  by  the 
friends  of  Government,  that  Quebec  is  even  now 
in  want  of  Provisions.  As  to  Boston  —  all  the 
world  knows  it  to  be  the  case  —  and  none  of  the 
Reliefs  of  Sour  Crout,  and  Cabbages  —  Potatoes, 


and  Geese,  Sheep  and  Carrots,  Beef  and  Coals, 
Porter  and  Turkies,  shipped  from  home  the  begin 
ning  of  September,  had  arrived  the  5th  December. 
But  a  person  of  Plymouth  on  the  first  news  of  the 
Bostonian  scarcity,  sailed  with  a  supply  on  a 
Risque,  and  though  he  lost  two-thirds  of  it  on  his 
voyage,  he  made  a  good  speculation. — Geese,  and 
Turkies,  sold  from  1  Os.  to  20s.  Fowls,  from  7s. 
6d.  to  10s.  6d.,  and  a  starved  Pig  of  not  more  than 
three  stone  for  five  or  six  dollars.  Mutton  at  the 
rate  of  Is.  6d.  per  Ib.  The  Troops  recover  fast, 
with  the  cold  weather,  and  are  served  with  fresh 
Provisions  twice  a  week,  but  the  Inhabitants  of 
Boston,  have  had  no  fresh  Provisions  for  some 
months. 

The  Rebels,  it  is  said,  are  still  fifteen  thousand, 
and  are  prepared  for  a  winter  Campaign,  as  they 
are  all  hutted,  and  the  Sentinels  are  so  near,  that 
they  hear  every  relief  that  goes  round  on  each 
side. 

The  Troops  on  Bunker  Hill,  where  General  Clin 
ton  commands,  would  all  be  under  cover,  by  the 
10th  of  this  month. 

Washington,  and  Lee  have  quarrelled,  the  latter, 
it  seems,  with  the  whole  Army. 

They  have  made  a  great  acquisition  in  taking 
the  Transport,  which  was  entirely  freighted  with 
17 


t  182] 

Military  Stores,  and  Clothing,  for  the  Troops  ; 
Among  other  things  were  five  hundred  Barrels  of 
Gunpowder,  some  light  Rifle  barreled  Field  Pieces, 
invented,  or  introduced,  however,  by  Lord  Town- 
send. 

Ethan  Allen,  who  Mr.  W.  assures  me  was  a 
Freebooter,  and  had  no  authority  from  the  Con 
gress — with  Walker,  and  about  thirty-six  persons, 
are  come  over  from  Quebec,  in  the  ship  with  Mr. 

Watson,  and  are  now  safe  in  Pendennis  Castle. 

********* 

Many  happy  years,  dear  Izard,  to  you,  Mrs. 
Izard,  and  those  you  love. 

I  am,  most  sincerely, 

Your  friend. 


From  Mr.  Izard  to  George  Dempster,  Esq. 

BATH,  January  28, 1776. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

This  will,  I  hope,  find  you  safe 
returned  after  having  furnished  yourself  with  all 


[  183] 

the  knowledge  the  farmers  of  Norfolk  could  af 
ford  you. 

We  have  had  a  very  full  season  here,  and  I  wish 
you  could  have  added  one  to  the  number. 

The  weather  has  been  so  cold,  that  if  I  had  had 
no  other  remembrancer,  it  would  have  put  me  in 
mind  of  New- York. 

It  has  been  reported  here  for  some  days,  that 
Lord  North,  was  to  resign  the  direction  of  affairs 
to  Lord  George  Germaine.  I  heartily  wish  it  may 
be  true ;  I  look  upon  the  noble  Lord  in  the  blue 
ribband,  to  be  the  chief  support  of  the  present  Min 
istry.  Remove  him— and  the  others  cannot  hold 
long  together. 

Great  part  of  the  Nation  have  confidence  in  him. 
Never  was  there  anything  worse  founded,  but  still 
it  has  its  effect.  I  cannot  think  that  this  Kingdom 
will  long  endure  Lord  George  Germaine. 

The  first  considerable  miscarriage,  that  happens, 
under  his  direction — will  shake  him  to  the  founda 
tion.  Lord  North  is  perfectly  a  thing  of  paste,  to 
be  moulded  into  any  form,  at  the  will  of  Jenkinson, 
and  Sir  Gilbert. 

The  other  is  as  haughty  and  arbitrary — as  the 
King  of  Prussia  ;  He  willsubmit  to  no  invisible  in 
fluence — and  will,  of  course,  soon  be  obnoxious  to 


L  184] 

many  people — who  are  as  unfriendly  to  America 
as  himself. 

Applications,  I  hear,  have  been  made  for  assist 
ance  to  the  Court  of  Brunswick.  Has  Prince 
Ferdinand  forgotten — and  forgiven  everything? 
Does  he  not  know,  who  it  is  that  the  King  at  pre 
sent,  delighteth  to  honor  ?  Has  the  Hereditary 
Prince  no  remembrance  of  the  ungentlemanlike 
treatment  he  met  with  from  his  brother-in-law, 
when  he  came  here  to  marry  his  sister  ?  Perhaps 
these  two  Princes  have  no  interest  at  the  court  of 
Brunswick — or  they  may  be  possessed  of  nothing 
but  the  milk  of  Human  Kindness. 


From  Mr.  hard,  to  a  friend  in  Bath. 

LONDON,  February  13,  1775. 

The  weather  during  my  journey  was  exceeding 
ly  good,  and  the  roads — except  about  Maidenhead. 
That  Town  resembles  the  Streets  of  Venice — 
water  up  to  the  Threshold  of  every  door.  I  lay 


[  185  ] 

last  night  at  Houndslow — and  arived  safe  in  town 
this  morning  between  nine  and  ten. 

As  I  had  appointed  my  anonymous  correspon 
dent  to  meet  him  at  ten,  I  should  have  been  oblig 
ed  to  rise  disagreeably  early — if  I  had  stopped  at 
Salt  Hill— as  I  first  intended. 

The  letter  came  from  the  quarter  I  suspected — 
and  the  writer  can  give  me  very  little  more  intel 
ligence  than  I  had  before. 

The  most  material  part  is — that  he  has  authenti 
cated  Dr.  Church's  correspondence.  He  has  told 
me  nothing  that  has  alarmed  me — or  that  is  at  all 
answerable  to  the  contents  of  his  letter. 

He  thought  that  he^was  doing  a  material  piece 
of  service  to  the  cause— and  so  far,  I  am  obliged  to 
him,  but  wish  he  had  postponed  it  for  ten  days. 

The  Somerset  Man-of-War,  is  arrived  at  Ports 
mouth,  from  Halifax — which  she  left  on  the  14th 
January.  It  is  stated  that  she  has  brought  a  con 
firmation  of  the  taking  of  Quebec— and  an  account 
that  the  Provincials  had  begun  to  Bombard  Boston. 
On  the  other  hand,  it  is  reported  that  a  party  had 
sallied  out  of  Quebec,  and  routed  Arnold,  with 
considerable  loss  to  his  party.  It  is  possible  that 
both  these  pieces  of  news  may  be  true — allowing  a 
small  interval  of  time,  between  the  two  events, 

17* 


February  15,  1775. 

You  will  have  heard  of  Shuldham's  arrival  at 
Boston,  and  that  Admiral  Graves  is  hourly  expect 
ed  from  thence. 

The  Ministry  are  so  much  exasperated  against 
him — that  I  am  told  they  intend  to  destroy  him  if 
they  can. 

I  have  seen  a  letter  from  Macdougal,  at  New- 
York — giving  an  account  of  public  affairs. 

The  Militia  (he  says)  of  that  Province,  is  well 
regulated,  by  the  Convention.  Nine  thousand  five 
hundred — are  appointed  as  minute  men — and  will, 
by  the  spring,  be  in  excellent  order.  They  have 
a  good  train  of  Brass  and  Iron  Artillery. 

The  Province  of  New- York  is  now  better  pre 
pared  for  defence — than  the  Massachusetts  Bay 
was — when  they  were  first  attacked. 

There  are  at  Cambridge,  Twenty-six  complete 
Regiments,  of  six  hundred  and  thirty-two  effective 
men  each— which  is  between  sixteen,  and  seven 
teen  Thousand. 

The  last  advices  that  they  had  in  New- York, 
from  Canada,  when  this  letter  was  written — were 
of  the  7th  December.  General  Montgomery  was 


[ 

then  before  Quebec,  with  four  thousand  Provin 
cials—and  a  considerable  number  of  Canadians. 
He  was  waiting  for  his  Artillery  to  come  •  from 
Montreal.  There  was  no  doubt  but  he  would 
soon  oblige  General  Carleton,  to  surrender — who 
has  under  his  command  one  thousand  and  fifty- 
three  men,  consisting  of  English  and  French  Mer 
chants  —  Emigrants — Newfoundlanders — Sailors 
and  Mariners. 

Accounts  from  Philadelphia  mention  their  being 
supplied  with  ammunition  of  their  own  making, 
that  they  do  not  stand  in  need  of  any  importation 
of  that  article.  They  have  great  quantities  of  sul- 
pher,  and  Saltpetre. 

Six  Frigates  were  ready  to  sail  out  of  the  Dela 
ware — as  soon  as  the  Ice  would  permit  them.  Four 
others  would  soon  follow.  Eight  were  on  the 
stocks — intended  to  carry  thirty-six  Guns,  each. 
This  Armament,  I  believe,  is  intended  against  the 
three  Governors  to  the  Southward — who  are  not 
to  be  got  at — but  by  an  expedition  of  this  sort. 

Some  shells  have  been  thrown  into  Boston — and 
I  have  heard  that  General  Howe,  has  written  to 
the  Ministry,  that  if  they  continue  to  annoy  him, 
of  which  there  is  very  little  doubt — he  shall  be 
obliged  to  sally  out,  and  attack  the  Provincial  lines. 

If  so — a  second  Bunker's  Hill  affair  will  happen — 


[  188  J 

but  certainly  much  more  bloody.  What  I  have 
written,  you  will  see  in  the  next  Evening  Post.  It 
is  no  small  additional  consequence — in  the  Political 
world — to  get  news,  two  days  before  one's  neigh 
bours. 
The  news  of  the  taking  of  Quebec  is  discredited. 


February  17,  1776. 

The  Congress  have  adjourned — and  left  a  stand 
ing  Committee  of  five,  to  transact  business. 

Franklin,  and  Dickenson,  are  two  of  their  mem 
bers.  I  wish  Lynch  had  been  added  to  them. 

The  report  of  the  taking  of  Quebec,  is  entirely 
blown  over. 

Lord  George  Germaine  grows  every"  day  a 
greater  favorite  ;  Lord  North,  sometimes  hesitated 
and  found  difficulties— but  to  him — all  things  are 
smooth  and  easy. 


[  189] 


LONDON,  February  19, 1776. 

I  had  heard  of  the  taking  of  the  Cruizer  sloop. 
It  was  said  that  Martin  had  left  her  some  time  ago 
— and  gone  on  board  the  Scorpion. 

I  wish  Mr.  Digges'  account  may  be  true. 

If  he  is  gone  ashore,  his  Marines  may  not  be 
sufficient  to  protect  him.  Compliments  to  Mr. 
Digges,  and  thank  him  for  his  intelligence.  I  am 
very  sorry  he  has  changed  his  resolution  about 
coming  to  town. 

I  met  General  Gage,  in  the  Street  a  day  or  two 
ago.  He  was  civil,  and  hoped  to  see  me.  I  said 
the  same  to  him,  and  yesterday  he  left  his  name 
for  me.  I  returned  the  visit — but  nobody  was  at 
home. 

Charles  Fox,  is  to  move  in  the  House  of  Com 
mons,  to-morrow  for  an  examination  into  the 
causes  of  the  ill-success  of  the  British  Arms — and 
the  defection  of  the  Canadians.  A  good  debate, 
and  division  is  expected ;  I  shall  endeavor  to  get 
in — but  do  not  think  the  Ministry,  will  choose  to 
have  their  folly,  and  misconduct — laid  before  a  full 
Gallery. 


[  190] 


February  22,  1776. 

The  friends  of  America,  are  much  afflicted  at 
the  news  which  Admiral  Graves,  has  brought  from 
Boston.  A  most  unfortunate  affair,  has  happened 
at  Quebec.  Montgomery,  and  seventy  men,  are 
killed — and  Arnold  wounded,  and  taken  prisoner. 

The  Ministry  and  their  friends  are  in  great 
spirits  ;  and  the  news  is  generally  believed.  I  fear 
it  is  too  true  ; — but  still  it  is  possible,  that  it  may 
not  be. 

Captain  Fay,  is  appointed  Commissary  General, 
to  the  Hessians — and  is  certainly  to  go  with  them 
to  America.  This  Canadian  news,  comes  very 
mal  apropos.  Nobody  was  admitted  to  the  debate 
on  Tuesday,  except  the  Ladies.  Dempster  tells 
me  it  was  a  very  good  one  ;  but  as  usual,  our  ene 
mies  greatly  outnumbered  us ;  the  division — two 
hundred  and  forty — and  one  hundred  and  four. 


[191] 


February  24,  1776. 

I  have  taken  a  good  deal  of  pains,  to  inform  my 
self  about  the  unfortunate  news,  contained  in  my 
my  last  letter.  Would  to  God,  I  could  write  you 
that  I  did  not  believe  it. 

Lord  George  Germaine,  has  told  several  gentle 
men,  whom  I  have  seen — that  it  may  be  relied  on. 
General  Howe,  received  his  intelligence  from  a 
deserter.  If  the  whole  depended  upon  his  testi 
mony,  there  might  be  some  reason  to  doubt  the 
truth  of  it ; — but  there  is  a  letter  handed  about  from 
a  gentleman  in  Montreal — to  his  friend  in  Boston — 
giving  an  account,  that  on  the  31st  December,  a 
feint  was  made  on  Quebec,  by  Arnold — with  three 
hundred  men— while  Montgomery,  with  the  Main 
body — attacked  the  town,  in  another  quarter. 

Arnold  succeeded,  and  got  into  the  town — but 
was  afterwards  taken  prisoner,  with  his  party— as 
Montgomery  was  repulsed  and  killed.  The  letter 
mentions  that  his  Aid-de-Camp,  and  Secretary — 
were  killed  at  the  same  time. 

The  only  chance  we  have,  is — that  there  is  a 
possibility — this  letter  may  be  forged — for  the  pur 
pose  of  Stock  Jobbing.  This  is  the  most  unfortunate 


L  192  J 

event  that  has  happened.  Seventy  men,  are  said 
to  have  been  killed.  These  may  be  replaced  ; — 
but  where  shall  we  get  such  another  man,  as 
Montgomery  ? 

After  lamenting  his  loss  to  the  public — I  am  truly 
sorry  for  the  distress  of  his  wife — who  has,  within  a 
few  weeks,  lost  both  her  Husband,  and  her  Father. 
Judge  Livingston  died  at  Philadelphia,  of  an  Apo 
plexy. 

It  is  of  such  consequence  to  get  possession  of 
Quebec — that  I  should  imagine  Washington,  would 
send  a  considerable  reinforcement  into  Canada — 
probably  under  the  command  of  Lee. 


February  27,  1776. 

In  the  first  page  of  the  London  Evening  Post,  of 
this  night — you  will  see  the  letter  of  16th  January 
from  Montreal,  that  I  mentioned  in  my  last.  A 
copy  of.it  was  left  at  a  Coffee  House,  in  the  City — 
and  it  was  generally  believed,  at  first,  to  be  au 
thentic.  It  is  now  suspected  to  be  fabricated 
here. 


[  193  ] 

The  pnblick  are  not  agreed  about  the  truth  of 
the  news  from  Quebec,  though  it  is  believed  in 
general.  I  am  sorry  to  say  that  the  reasons  offer 
ed  for  disbelieving  it,  are  not  entirely  satisfactory 
to  me.  I  am  always  apt  to  suspect  the  worst.  At 
all  events,  whether  Montgomery  is  killed,  or  not, 
I  believe  that  Quebec,  will  be  taken  before  any 
succour  can  be  sent  from  this  Country. 

The  Ministry  made  but  a  feeble  defence,  on  the 
day  of  Fox's  motion.  The  division  shows  that 
arguments  have  no  effect,  on  so  determined  a  band, 
as  the  House  of  Commons. 

They  go  to-morrow  on  the  subject  of  the  for 
eign  Treaties.  You  will  see  them  in  the  Parlia 
mentary  Register.  This  Country  will  be  drawn 
into  very  great  expense  by  them. 


March  6,  1776. 

Lady  William  Campbell,  is  arrived,  with  her 
three  children.     I  have  had  a  good  deal  of  conver 
sation  with  her  about  Carolina,  and  find  that  every 
thing  there  is  in  great  confusion. 
18 


L  194  ] 

Charlestown  is  fortified,  and  considerable  addi 
tions  have  been  made  to  Fort  Johnson.  The  In 
habitants  are  determined  to  defend  themselves,  if 
attacked ;  and  if  the  discontented  back  inhabitants 
can  be  kept  quiet,  an  invasion  in  that  part,  will  not 
easily  be  effected. 

I  am  just  informed,  that  there  are  letters  in  town, 
to-day,  brought  from  New- York,  by  a  ship,  which 
is  arrived  in  Ireland.  It  would  give  me  infinite 
pleasure,  to  hear  of  a  refutation  of  the  news,  con 
cerning  Montgomery;  but  my  hopes  are  very  faint. 
The  bad  effects  of  that  unfortunate  affair,  begin 
already  to  appear.  Before  the  Quebec  news  ar 
rived — Lord  Howe  declared  that  he  thought  him 
self  vested  with  such  powers,  as  would  enable  him 
to  make  peace.  The  death  of  Montgomery,  and 
the  check  which  the  Provincials  have  received, 
have  so  elated  a  certain  person — that  Lord  Howe's 
instructions  are  said  to  be  altered — and  he  is  so  dis 
gusted,  that  it  is  doubtful  whether  he  will  go  to 
America,  or  no. 


[  195  ] 


March  9,  1776. 

A  Transport  is  arrived,  which  left  New- York, 
the  10th  February.  Despatches  were  brought  to 
Lord  George  Germaine — but  there  were  no  private 
letters. 

General  Lee  was  arrived  at  New- York,  with 
three  thousand  men.  I  wrote  to  Mrs.  Tryon,  to 
know  if  she  had  heard  anything  of  the  fate  of 
Montgomery ;  I  have  since  heard  that  General 
Carleton,  has  thought  proper,  to  hang  twenty 
Canadians.  This  may  produce  very  disagreeable 
consequences.  If  he  should  be  taken  prisoner 
himself— the  friends  and  relations  of  these  people, 
may  think  it  right,  to  use  the  laws  of  Retaliation. 


L  196  ] 

From  Mr.  hard  to  John  De  Lancey,  Esq. 
LONDON,  March  10,  1776. 

It  is  long  since  I  have  had  the  pleasure  of  re 
ceiving  a  letter  from  you.  I  have  had  no  oppor 
tunity  of  writing  directly,  but  have  written  to  you 
by  several  passengers  to  Halifax,  Newfoundland, 
and  Quebec,  and  hope  some  of  my  letters  have 
got  safe  to  your  hands. 

I  congratulate  you  on  the  spirited  conduct  of 
our  Countrymen  ;  and  trust  in  God  that  such  no 
ble  exertions  will  finally  be  crowned  with  success. 

Though  at  such  a  distance  as  I  am  from  home, 
nothing  in  my  power  has  been  wanting.  As  soon 
as  I  had  intelligence  that  the  Ministry,  were  nego 
tiating  for  German  Troops,  I  requested  and  obtain 
ed  a  private  interview  with  A.  B.  and  C.,  sepa 
rately.  These  three  persons  were  supposed  to 
have  the  entire  management  of  every  measure  that 
relates  to  America.  I  expostulated  against  send 
ing  Troops  to  America — particularly  foreigners, 
and  requested  that  if  any  thoughts  were  entertain 
ed  of  an  accommodation — that  the  Commissioners, 
might  be  sent  out  immediately  to  Philadelphia  to 


L 


treat  with  the  Congress,  and  that  no  army  might 
accompany  them.  That  an  Army  accompanying 
the  Commissioners,  would  be.  looked  upon,  as  in 
tending  to  intimidate.  That  it  would  not  have  that 
effect  —  but  would  most  certainly  irritate,  and  pro 
bably  would  be  an  obstacle  to  any  Treaty.  That 
the  Ratification  of  the  Treaty  —  the  negotiating 
with  Hesse  Cassel,  and  Brunswick,  would  infalli 
bly  prove  a  Bill  of  Divorce,  between  Great  Britain, 
and  America.  That  I  was  certain  a  very  great 
majority,  not  only  of  the  people  at  large  —  but  also 
in  the  Congress,  had  nothing  so  much  at  heart  as 
a  redress  of  their  grievances  —  and  an  accommoda 
tion  with  Great  Britain.  That  I  believed  a  renun 
ciation  of  the  right  of  Taxation,  by  the  Authority  of 
Parliament  —  of  altering  Charters  —  and  of  bringing 
persons  to  England  to  be  tried,  for  supposed  of 
fences  —  would  be  preliminary  articles,  so  agreeable 
to  America  —  that  if  they  were  granted,  by  Parlia 
ment,  it  would  show  so  good  a  disposition,  on  the 
part  of  Great  Britain,  to  an  accommodation  —  that 
I  did  not  doubt,  but  it  would  immediately  take 
place  —  as  most  of  the  other  grievances  of  America, 
were  but  of  a  secondary  consideration  to  these. 

The  result  of  these  different  conferences,  was  a 
conviction  to  my  mind,  that  the  Governors  of  this 
Country  have  no   Idea  of  a  connexion   between 
18* 


[  198] 

England  and  America — but  such  a  one  as  subsists 
between  a  Lord  and  his  Vassal. 

Perhaps  the  Divine  Author  of  our  being — may 
have  intended  this,  for  our  benefit. 

As  long  as  Petitions,  and  applications  to  the 
King — Parliament — or  the  Ministry,  seemed  of  any 
possible  effect — I  promoted,  and  forwarded  them,  to 
the  utmost  of  my  power. 

When  every  hops. vanished  from  that  quarter— 
and  it  was  evident,  that  nothing  but  bloodshed,  and 
subjugation  was  intended — I  took  such  steps  as 
seemed  likely  to  be  of  service  to  my  Country.  I 
cultivated  an  intimacy  with  D.,  who  is  a  very  sen 
sible  man — and  I  flatter  myself  with  the  hope  that 
some  advantage  has  been,  and  still  will  be  derived 
from  that  connexion. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  his  friend  in  Bath. 

LONDON,  March  12,  1776. 

The  Ministry,  and  their  friends,  are  exceedingly 
elated,  at  the  news  from  Quebec.     The  joy  that  is 


[  199  ] 

shown,  by  every  enemy  to  America,  is  the  greatest 
compliment,  that  can  possibly  be  paid  to  the  memo 
ry  of  Montgomery.  Carleton,  from  being  a  ruined 
man — is  of  a  sudden  become  the  greatest  favorite 
in  the  world.  An  accidental  shot,  has  effected  this 
wonderful  change. 

Had  Montgomery  lived,  he  would  certainly 
have  taken  the  town — and  Mr.  Carleton,  would 
have  been  lost  forever.  Upon  what  trifles,  does 
the  happiness,  or  misery  of  man  often  depend. 

I  heard  to-day  of  the  death  of  Mrs.  Amhurst, 
and  do  most  sincerely  pity  her  Husband.  The 
loss  of  an  amiable  wife — must  be  the  summit  of  all 
human  afflictions. 


From  George  Dempster,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 
DUNNECHEN,  near  FORFAR,  N.  B.,  April  7, 1776. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

Since  my  return  to  this,  I  have 
been  favoured  with  yours  of  the  23d.     The  fate 


[  200  ] 

of  our  Militia  Bill,  gave  me  concern,  because  I 
know,  that  my  Countrymen,  may  safely  be  entrust 
ed  with  Arms,  and  I  thought  the  present,  the  most 
likely  time  for  its  being  obtained.  When  I  see 
what  the  Militia  of  America  have  done,  in  the  De 
fence  of  their  Country,  I  am  more  and  more  con 
firmed  in  my  opinion,  of  the  benefits  to  be  expect 
ed  from  such  an  institution. 
•  I  am  just  come  home  in  the  heat  of  the  planting, 
and  ploughing  season,  and  am  pretty  deeply  en 
gaged  in  both.  The  transition  from  London,  to 
these  delightful  occupations,  affords  me  a  pleasure, 
that  would  be  complete,  but  from  the  consideration 
of  the  distracted  state  of  this  Empire,  falling  to 
pieces,  and  never  like  to  be  again  united. — But 
permanency  is  not  the  lot  of  Kingdoms — more  than 
of  their  Inhabitants. 

Mrs.  D.  returns  you  her  compliment.  I  had  the 
pleasure  of  finding  her  in  perfect  health — after  a 
dull,  and  severe  winter  Campaign. 

I  beg  you  will  offer  my  respectful  compliments 
to  Mrs.  Izard,  and  believe  me  to  be,  with  perfect 
sincerity  and  affection, 

Your  friend, 

GEORGE  DEMPSTER. 


t  201  ] 

From  Mr.  hard  to  George  Livins,  Es'q. 

BATH,  April  7,  1776. 
DEAR  LIVINS  : — 

As  soon  as  I  received  your  orders 
for  the  Coach,  &c.  I  wrote  to  Messrs.  Gemmell, 
according  to  your  desire. 

Among  other  things,  you  mentioned  such  an 
Organ  as  mine.  The  unhappy  situation  of  Ameri 
can  affairs — has  obliged  me  to  give  up  my  House, 
and  confine  myself,  to  as  economical  a  system,  as 
possible.  It  was,  therefore,  a  convenience  to  me, 
to  part  with  my  Organ — and. I  have  shipped  it  for 
you,  on  board  Captain  Elphinson.  It  is  as  good  a 
one,  as  can  be  made,  and  is  rather  improved,  than 
injured  by  time.  I  have  charged  you  £100  for 
it,  which  is  about  twenty  pounds  less  than  it  cost 
me. 

If  the  Organ  is  intended  as  an  article  of  Mer 
chandize — and  any  loss  should  be  sustained  in  con 
sequence  of  the  high  duty — I  shall  be  satisfied  to  be 
the  loser. 

I  have  written  you  but  three  letters,  since  you 


[  202  ] 

left  England.  I  wish  at  all  times  to  give  you 
every  testimony  of  my  regard  and  friendship  ;  but 
the  truth  is — that  my  mind  has  been  so  distracted 
with  the  unhappy  situation  of  public  affairs — that 
I  have  felt  a  total  disinclination  to  all  business. 

I  thought  that  travelling  might  be  of  service  to 
me,  and,  therefore,  Mrs.  Izard  and  I,  left  the  child 
ren  under  the  care  of  a  proper  Governess,  and 
made  a  Tour  through  France — Switzerland — Italy 
— and  part  of  Germany.  In  these  Countries  all  ranks 
of  people,  are  full  of  American  Politics — and  the 
Ministry  of  Great  Britain,  seem  alone  to  be  igno 
rant  of  the  dangers,  that  threaten  the  dismember 
ment  of  the  British  Empire. 

Great  Britain,  and  Switzerland — are  the  only  two 
Countries — where  Tyranny  is  not  triumphant.  The 
reason  is  obvious.  In  one  Country  there  are  no 
taxes,  or  Standing  Armies ;  and  though  there  are 
both,  in  the  other — the  people  are  a  continual  check 
upon  the  executive,  by  scrupulously  preserving  the 
right  of  granting  money,  in  their  own  hands. 
America,  is  well  convinced  how  essential  this  is  to 
freedom — and  she  is  determined  to  be  free. 

I  am  told  that  the  Magazines — and  Newspapers, 
are  sent  regularly  to  Calcutta  ;  it  will,  therefore, 
be  unnecessary  for  me  to  enter  into  a  long,  and 
Historical  account,  of  public  affairs ;  but  as  every- 


[  203  ] 

thing  that  appears  in  these  two  great  vehicles  of 
Intelligence,  is  not  of  consequence  to  be  believed — 
I  will  write  you  a  few  facts  that  may  be  depended 
on. 

The  Legislative,  and  Executive  powers  of 
North  America,  are  now  exercised  by  the  Conti 
nental  Congress — which  is  composed  of  Delegates, 
from  Thirteen  Provinces  (the  three  lower  Coun 
ties  on  the  River  Delaware,  having  an  Assembly 
distinct  from  that  of  Pennsylvania  being  reckoned 
as  one)  and  make  altogether  between  sixty,  and 
seventy  persons. 

I  believe  them  to  be  the  wisest — the  most  honest — 
the  most  incorrupt — and  as  far  as  relates  to  them 
selves,  as  individuals — the  most  disinterested  Repre 
sentative  Body — that  ever  were  assembled.  This 
is  the  character  they  bear,  throughout  all  North 
America ;  the  people  have  confidence  in  them, 
and  of  course  their  mandates,  are  implicitly 
obeyed. 

They  have  raised  an  Army— and  have  issued  as 
much  paper  Money,  as  is  necessary  to  answer  all 
their  purposes.  Mr.  Washington  is  Commander 
in  Chief— and  there  never  was  a  General  more 
adored  by  an  Army. 

He  has  been  encamped  before  Boston,  all  win 
ter,  with  Twenty  Thousand  Men.  General  Gage 


[  204  ] 

was  shut  up  there,  with  Ten  Thousand  Regular 
Troops  ;  he  is  now  removed — and  General  Howe 
succeeds  him  in  the  command,  and  continues  to  be 
besieged.  The  Ministry  looked  upon  that  force, 
as  more  than  sufficient  to  terrify  America,  into  sub 
jection. 

On  the  19th  of  last  April — before  the  Congress 
had  resolved  to  raise  an  Army  (still  hoping  that 
their  repeated  applications  to  the  King,  would 
open  the  eyes  of  the  Nation,  and  prevent  the  ne 
cessity  of  having  recourse  to  arms) — General  Gage, 
resolved  to  put  the  patience — and  courage — of  the 
inhabitants  of  the  Massachusetts  Bay  to  the  trial. 

A  provincial  Congress,  was  assembled  about 
twenty  miles  from  Boston,  to  deliberate  upon  pub 
lic  affairs,  as  their  General  Assembly  had  been 
dissolved.  General  Gage,  had  intelligence  of  this 
meeting — and  dispatched  two  thousand  men,  with 
orders  to  seize  Messrs.  Hancock — and  Adams — two 
gentlemen  who  are  highly  esteemed  by  their 
countrymen. 

The  Troops  met  about  one  hundred  of  the  New 
England  Militia,  exercising  at  Lexington — a  town 
fifteen  miles  from  Boston.  The  Militia  seeing  the 
superiority  of  numbers  against  them,  retreated  and 
would  have  disappeared.  The  Regulars  fired  on 
them — killed  eight — and  then  pursued  their  march, 


[205] 

intending  to  execute  their  commission  against 
Hancock  and  Adams,  who  kept  out  of  their  way. 
An  alarm  was  immediately  spread,  and  the  coun 
try  people,  undisciplined  and  without  officers,  at 
tacked  the  Regulars,  and  drove  them  into  Boston, 
after  having  killed,  and  wounded,  about  three  hun 
dred  of  them. 

On  the  17th  June  following,  about  one  thousand 
five  hundred  of  the  Provincials,  took  possession  of 
a  post  opposite  Boston,  called  Bunker's  Hill. 
General  Howe,  General  Clinton,  and  Colonel 
Piggot,  with  the  Grenadiers,  and  light  Infantry  of 
the  Army,  amounting  to  about  two  thousand  two 
hundred  men,  attacked,  and  obliged  them  to  re 
tire,  which  they  did  in  good  order,  without  the 
King's  Troops  daring  to  follow  them.  They  did 
not  quit  Bunker's  Hill,  until  they  had  expended  all 
their  ammunition,  which  was  employed  so  effectu 
ally,  that  about  one  thousand  one  hundred  of  the 
King's  Troops,  were  either  killed,  or  disabled. 

An  account  of  these  things,  you  will  probably 
have  received  long  ago,  but  it  may  be,  not  with 
such  truth  as  I  have  stated  it.  The  Brussels  Ga 
zette,  last  War,  became  Proverbial,  on  account  of 
its  falsehood,  and  partiality.  The  London  Gazette, 
at  present,  is  not  much  less  so.  Ministry  would 
have  it  believed,  that  there  were  at  Bunker's  Hill 
19 


[206] 

five  or  six  thousand  Provincials,  but  you  may  de 
pend  upon  it,  I  write  you  from  undoubted  au 
thority. 

There  have  been  several  skirmishes  last  sum 
mer,  between  small  parties,  of  the  two  armies, 
and  in  no  instance,  have  the  Regulars  shown 
themselves  superior,  when  the  numbers  have  been 
equal. 

Charlestown,  near  Boston,  has  been  burnt,  Fal- 
mouth  in  Casco  Bay,  and  ^Norfolk  in  Virginia, 
have  met  with  the  same  fate. 

Brigadier  General  Montgomery,  with  about 
two  thousand  five  hundred  Provincials,  (Connecti. 
cut  men,  and  New-Yorkers)  entered  Canada,  be 
sieged  St.  Johns,  (which  at  the  beginning  of  this 
Civil  War,  was  made  a  very  strong  Fortress)  and 
took  it,  together  with  Chamblay ;  near  six  hundred 
of  the  King's  Troops,  and  two  hundred  Canadi 
ans,  were  made  prisoners  at  these  two  places. 

General  Carleton,  Governor  of  Canada,  attempt 
ed  to  relieve  them,  but  was  beaten,  and  forced  to 
fly.  Montgomery  took  Montreal,  and  pursued 
Carleton  to  Quebec.  He  besieged  him  there,  but 
his  cannon  proving  too  small  to  make  a  breach, 
he  attempted  to  take  the  place  by  escalade  31st 
December.  He  was  unfortunately  killed,  and  his 


•  •"*• 

[207] 

death  prevented  Quebec,  from  falling  into  the 
hands  of  the  Provincials. 

The  death  of  General  Montgomery,  is  the  great 
est  loss  the  Americans  have  met  with.  He  was  a 
very  brave,  and  able  Officer.  You  may  very  like 
ly  remember  him.  He  was,  when  you  were  in 
America,  a  Captain  in  the  17th  Regiment.  He 
quitted  the  Army  between  three  and  four  years 
ago,  married  a  daughter  of  Robert  R.  Livingston, 
and  settled  in  New- York. 

These  are  dreadful  accounts,  but  the  ensuing 
summer,  will  furnish  others  much  more  so. 

The  Ministry  of  this  Country,  putting  no  value 
upon  their  past  experience,  are  determined  upon 
subjugating  the  Colonies.  They  find  that  the 
force  of  Great  Britain,  is  not  sufficient,  and  there 
fore  they  have  shamefully  prostrated  themselves, 
before  every  Court  in  Europe,  supplicating  some, 
not  to  assist  America,  and  others,  for  assistance 
against  her. 

France,  and  Spain,  have  promised  to  remain 
neuter,  and  seventeen  thousand  German  Troops, 
consisting  of  Hessians,  and  Brunswickers,  are 
waiting  for  nothing  but  Transports,  and  a  fair 
wind,  to  waft  them  to  the  shores  of  America,  to 
dye  them  with  the  blood  of  her  once  happy  sons. 

Human  wisdom,  cannot  answer  for  the  events 


[  208  ] 

of  War;  but  if  any  thing  can  be  depended  on 
from  what  has  happened,  I  think  the  Ministerial 
Troops,  with  their  German  Mercenaries,  will  be 
defeated.  It  is  said  they  will  amount  to  forty 
thousand  effective  men,  which  against  so  young  a 
Country  as  America,  seems  rather  more  than 
enough.  The  goodness  of  our  cause — and  the 
courage  of  my  countrymen — will,  I  trust,  surmount 
all  difficulties. 

I  congratulate  you  on  the  happy  prospect  you 
have  of  succeeding  in  India. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  his  friend  in  Bath. 

LONDON,  April  26,  1776. 

A  gentleman  lately  arrived  from  Lisbon,  told 
Mr.  Lloyd  that  he  had  seen  the  Captain  of  the 
Hancock,  and  Adams,  who  left  Philadelphia  the 
beginning  of  March. 

General  Lee  has  certainly  Fifteen  Thousand 
men,  at  New- York.  He  is  fortifying  the  City  and 
even  the  Streets.  The  Congress  have  determined 


[  209  ] 

that  it  shall  be  vigorously  defended.  The  pass  of 
Kingsbridge,  is  made  very  strong  with  one  hun 
dred  and  seventy  pieces  of  cannon. 

The  Captain  says  that  he  saw  Five  Thousand 
men,  exercised  in  the  neighbourhood  of  Philadel 
phia,  and  fire  Powder,  not  only  with  their  small 
arms,  but  likewise  with  their  cannon  ;  this  is  what 
they  have  not  done  hitherto,  and  is  a  sign  that  a 
considerable  quantity  of  ammunition  has  lately 
got  in  safe. 

Six  new  Frigates  of  thirty-six  guns  each,  would 
be  ready  to  be  launched  about  the  middle  of  April. 
The  Canadian  expedition  is  certainly  not  aban 
doned.  Two  Thousand  men  marched  from  Phila 
delphia,  as  their  quota,  the  beginning  of  February 
towards  Quebec — and  it  was  expected  it  would  be 
in  the  hands  of  the  Provincials,  before  any  suc 
cours  could  arrive  from  England. 

America  feels  her  strength,  and  is  determined  to 
exert  it.  I  do  not  find  that  there  is  the  least  pro 
bability  of  her  being  frightened  by  the  Hessians — 
or  even  by  the  Guards — into  unconditional  submis 
sion.  This  will  be  some  comfort  to  you,  and  to 
our  friends  in  the  Centre  house. 
19* 


[210] 


LONDON,  May  2,  1776. 

Government  have  this  afternoon  received  advice 
that  General  Howe,  has  embarked  his  army  and 
left  Boston.  Nobody  knows  where  he  is  going, 
or  what  is  the  cause  of  it ;  I  mean  nobody  except 
the  Ministry ;  perhaps  they  may. 

As  I  do  not  hear  of  his  having  been  attacked,  I 
suppose  he  must  have  been  in  want  of  Provisions. 
If  that  is  the  case,  I  do  not  know  where  he  will 
get  supplied. 

Lord  George  Germaine  said  at  5  o'clock,  this 
afternoon,  that  Mr.  Howe,  was  embarked.  I  do 
not  know  that  any  great  good  will  be  the  conse 
quence  of  it,  but  I  should  think,  that  he  would  not 
have  quitted  Boston,  if  he  could  have  staid  there 
conveniently. 


May  3,  1776. 

I  wrote  you  last  night,  as  I  thought  it  would 
give  you  pleasure  to  hear  of  the  Evacuation  of 


[211  ] 

Boston — and  I  think  you  must  have  received  the 
intelligence,  before  any  body  in  Bath. 

Washington's  long  inactivity,  has  been  owing  to 
his  not  having  banished  the  thoughts  of  an  accom 
modation.  As  soon  as  the  prohibitory  Act  ar 
rived — he  attacked  Boston,  from  Dorchester  Point 
— and  Mr.  Howe,  was  glad  to  get  his  Army  em 
barked,  in  the  best  manner  he  could. 

The  Ministry  keep  this  transaction,  as  secret  as 
they  can ;  but  there  are  some  private  letters,  that 
will  make  it  impossible  for  them  to  prevent  its 
being  known. 

The  enclosed  is  an  extract  of  one,  from  an  Offi 
cer's  wife  to  her  sister — and  can  be  depended  on 
as  genuine. 

"  Nantasket  Road,  March  25th. — We  were  Can 
nonaded  and  Bombarded  by  the  Provincials,  four 
teen  days,  and  at  last,  after  many  losses,  are  got 
on  board  one  hundred  and  forty  sail  of  Vessels. 
The  Provincials  fired  eighteen  pounders,  and  threw 
a  vast  number  of  Shells  into  the  Town. 

"  We  know  not  where  we  are  to  go.  We  are 
in  great  distress.  The  spectacle  is  truly  terrible. 
The  Provincials  entered  the  town,  with  Colours 
flying,  and  Drums  beating,  the  instant  we  left  it. 
I  wish  to  God,  I  was  with  you.  It  is  said,  Gen 
eral  Robertson  is  gone  to  Halifax  to  provide 
quarters." 


[212  ] 


May  4,  1776. 

The  Ministry  and  their  adherents,  affect  to  be 
not  discomposed  at  the  loss  of  Boston. 

It  must  be  a  matter  of  great  consequence  to 
them  ;  their  whole  plan  is  disconcerted,  and  a  new 
one  must  be  formed.  General  Howe,  and  his  Army 
are  in  the  greatest  distress,  and  know  not  where 
to  go. 

When  he  found  himself  Cannonaded  from  one 
side,  and  a  prodigious  Battery  erected  against  him 
on  the  other — he  desired  the  Select  Men,  to  write 
to  General  Washington,  and  inform  him,  that  he 
would  leave  the  town  ;  and  if  the  firing  would 
cease,  and  his  men  were  suffered  to  embark,  un 
molested — he  would  not  burn  the  Town  ;  otherwise 
— he  should  be  obliged  to  lay  it  in  ashes.  Washing 
ton  consented,  and  that  is  the  reason,  of  Mr. 
Howe's  embarking,  without  losing  any  of  his  men. 
This  may  be  depended  on— as  it  comes  from  Gov 
ernor  Hutchinson — whose  son  has  written  him  a 
full  account  of  the  whole  affair. 

The  Justice  Clerk  dined  here  last  Thursday. 
He  told  Mr.  Blake,  that  I  was  too  sanguine  in  my 
expectations — for  I  was  the  only  man  in  England, 


[213] 

who  thought  that  the  Provincials  would  be  in 
possession  of  Boston,  before  the  expiration  of  the 
winter. 

Before  the  company  broke  up,  I  received  the  ac 
count,  I  sent  you.  The  countenances  of  some  of 
the  party,  were  much  changed  for  the  worse,  and 
some  who  ought  to  have  rejoiced — were  otherwise 
affected. 

It  is  pleasant  to  hear  some  gentlemen,  who  a 
few  days  ago,  insisted  that  Mr.  Washington's 
force,  by  desertion,  and  discontent,  was  become 
inconsiderable — now  magnifying  it  to  a  powerful 
Army — of  Twenty-five  thousand  men. 

I  have  read  "  Common  Sense,"  the  pamphlet  you 
ask  about.  It  is  by  much  the  cleverest,  and  most 
ingenious  performance  I  ever  saw.  Almon  had  a 
copy  of  it,  but  it  was-  taken  from  him. 

I  have  just  bought  the  Gazette,  and  send  it  you. 
The  account  given  of  General  Howe's  having 
taken  the  Resolution  to  remove  from  Boston  to 
Halifax,  is  truly  ridiculous. 


[214] 

From  Mr.  hard  to  Geoorge  Livins,  Esq. 

RICHMOND,  July  15,  1776. 
DEAR  LIVINS  : — 

I  wrote  you,  two  or  three  months 
ago,  a  long  letter  intending  that  it  should  go  by 
Captain  Elphinson.  It  was  sent  to  Mr.  Gemmells, 
but  by  some  mismanagement,  it  was  left  behind, 
and  I  understand,  is  not  gone  yet.  * 

In  my  last  I  gave  you  a  particular  account  of 
the  state  of  Politicks  ;  I  wish  you  had  received  it 
in  proper  time ;  the  news  contained  in  it,  will  be 
stale,  when  it  gets  to  your  hands.  One  thing, 
however,  may  be  satisfactory — you  may  depend  on 
the  truth  of  everything  I  write  you. 

I  informed  you  that  the  Ministry  had  engaged 
seventeen  thousand  Hessians,  and  Brunswickers, 
to  assist  them,  in  their  schemes  against  America. 

They  have  been  sailed  several  weeks — and  are 
perhaps  at  this  instant,  engaged  in  executing  their 
impious — and  destructive  business. 

If  the  Administration  succeed,  there  will  be  an 
end  to  the  boasted  Liberties  of  Englishmen.  There 


I  215] 

is  a  spirit  of  Despotism  evident,  in  the  Governing 
powers,  of  this  Country,  which  will  be  dreadfully 
felt  here — if  the  power  of  resistance  in  America,  is 
ever  annihilated.  The  mercenary  homicides — now 
employed  in  the  extremities  of  the  British  Empire — 
if  not  successfully  resisted  there — will  meet  with 
very  little  opposition  in  England,  when  they  are 
brought  here — to  carry  the  second  part  of  the  plans 
of  Administration  into  execution.  But  I  trust  in 
God,  they  will  not  succeed. 

My  Countrymen  have,  hitherto,  shown  the 
greatest  courage,  and  good  conduct,  in  all  their 
proceedings — and  I  believe  they  will  continue  to  do 
so — to  the  disappointment,  and  confusion  of  their 
enemies. 

In  my  last,  I  informed  you  of  General  Howe's 
being  besieged  at  Boston.  General  Washington 
knew  that  no  assistance  could  be  sent  to  him  from 
England,  during  the  winter.  Boston  was  too 
strongly  fortified,  to  be  taken  ;  but  by  keeping  the 
town  constantly  alarmed — the  Garrison  grew  very 
weak. 

On  the  second  of  March,  Washington,  having 
got  a  considerable  supply  of  Gun  Powder,  and 
other  Military  stores,  from  the  French  West  Indies, 
determined  to  drive  Mr.  Howe  out  of  the  Town. 
He  was  Bombarded,  and  Cannonaded,  for  several 


[216] 

days,  and  Admiral  Schuldham,  informed  him,  that 
unless  he  could  silence  the  American  Batteries,  the 
Men-of-War,  could  not  stay  in  the  Harbour.  This 
was  out  of  his  power  to  do— and  therefore  he  de 
termined  to  embark  his  Troops. 

If  the  Americans  had  attacked  him,  during  the 
time  of  his  embarkation — Mr.  Howe,  in  his  own  de 
fence — must  have  destroyed  the  Town  of  Boston. 

The  Select  Men,  who  were  shut  up  in  the  Town, 
were  very  anxious  to  save  it  from  destruction. 

They  applied  to  Mr.  Howe,  and  were  permitted 
to  go  to  Mr.  Washington — and  inform  him  that  if 
the  King's  Troops  were  not  annoyed  while  they 
embarked — the  Town  should  not  be  burnt.  It  was 
a  great  object  to  preserve  it — and,  therefore,  the 
English  Army  were  suffered  to  depart  on  the  14th 
March — without  having  a  gun  fired  at  them  by  the 
Americans. 

They  lay  in  Nantasket  Road,  off  the  Harbour 
of  Boston,  till  the  27th,  waiting  for  a  fair  wind — 
when  they  sailed  on  board  one  hundred  and  fifty 
Transports  for  Halifax,  and  arrived  there  safe  in 
six  days. 

We  have  accounts  that  General  Howe  left  Hali 
fax,  on  the  20th  June.  As  soon  as  he  is  joined  by 
the  British,  and  German  reinforcements  from  Eu 
rope—bloody  measures  will  be  pursued. 


[217] 

Washington  at  the  head  of  the  American  Army, 
is  waiting  for  him  at  New- York.  I  send  you  en 
closed  a  list  of  the  forces,  now  employed  against 
America.  They  are  commanded  by  Howe — Clin 
ton — Carleton — and  Burgoyne — four  of  the  best 
English  Generals. 

Lord  Howe — Admiral  Schuldham — and  Sir  Peter 
Parker,  command  the  Fleet,  which  consists  of  about 
seventy  sail  of  Men-of-War.  This  is  a  formidable 
force — but  yet  I  am  of  opinion  that  it  is  not  suffi 
cient,  to  answer  the  purposes  of  the  Ministry. 

It  will  doubtless  do  a  great  deal  of  mischief. — 
Many  Americans  will  be  killed — we  may  be  beaten 
at  first,  as  the  Czar  was  by  Charles  the  XII. — but 
I  think  we  have  resources,  to  enable  us  to  over 
come  all  our  difficulties. 

I  have  let  my  House  in  Town,  and  have  taken 
one  at  Richmond — where  I  am  practising  the 
strictest  rules  of  economy — as  I  have  no  remittan 
ces  from  America.  There  is  no  possibility  of  my 
getting  to  America,  directly  from  England.  My 
Wife,  and  Children,  are  less  unhappily  situated 
here — than  they  would  be  there  at  present. 

Were  it  not  on  their  account — I  should  certainly 
endeavor  to  get  myself  conveyed  to  the  other  side 
of  the  Atlantic. 

I  am  very  glad  to  hear  of  your  being  so  fortu- 
20 


[218] 

nately  settled.  Mr.  Dea,  tells  me  that  you  have 
the  friendship,  and  confidence,  of  Mr.  Francis.  I 
was  always  of  opinion,  that  your  success,  would 
be  founded  on  the  Virtue,  and  integrity  of  your 
heart. 

The  Gentlemen  who  have  returned  enriched 
from  the  East — have  not,  I  believe,  always  been 
regulated  by  such  motives.  The  patronage  of  a 
person  of  Mr.  Francis'  character,  and  abilities — 
leaves  me  no  room,  to  think  myself  mistaken.  I 
have  been  so  often  deceived]in  men — that  I  believe 
there  is  no  invariable  standard  by  which  they  may 
be  judged. 


From  Claude  Crespigny,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 
TEIGNMOUTH,  DEVONSHIRE,  August  25,  1776. 
DEAR  SIR  :— 

I  was  favoured  with  yours  of  the 
12th,  and  though  I  have  neither  information,  or 
entertainment  to  send  you  in  return  for  it,  I  am  at 


[219  J 

least  bound  to  send  you  my  best  thanks — this  in 
deed  I  should  have  done  sooner,  if  I  had  not  for 
some  days  past,  been  rambling  about  the  Country 
— among  other  places,  to  Mount  Edgecombe — 
which,  for  its  Views,  is,  I  think,  much  the  finest  place 
in  England. 

Mrs.  C.  is  much  obliged  to  you  for  your  good 
wishes — The  benefit  she  receives  from  bathing  is 
really  wonderful. — All  the  symptoms  of  weakness 
and  relaxation  which  she  brought  with  her,  entire 
ly  vanished  within  a  week — and  have  not  since 
appeared. 

We  shall  remain  till  the  13th  September,  when 
I  hope  to  return  to  Bath.  This  place  is  exceeding 
ly  private  (not  even  a  publick  room,  or  Coffee 
House)  and  would  of  course  be  dull,  if  it  were  not 
for  our  own  society.  Two  of  them  are  well 
known  to  you,  and  send  their  compliments.  C. 
Townshend,  and  Ley. 

We  find  all  our  Ministerial  acquaintance  very 
happy  with  the  Contents  of  the  Gazette  of  the  10th. 
I  confess  I  do  not  see  any  great  cause  for  exulta 
tion.  It  seems  fortunate,  indeed,  that  General 
Howe,  had  attempted  nothing,  without  his  rein 
forcements — but  it  by  no  means  seems  clear,  that 
with  these  reinforcements,  he  will  be  able  to  act 
to  any  effectual  purpose. — From  what  I  have  heard, 


[  220  ] 

it  is  probable  that  instead  of  making  an  attempt 
against  New- York,  as  was  intended — all  his  force 
will  be  bent  against  Philadelphia. 

The  hopes  from  Lord  Howe's  negotiation,  are, 
I  find,  entirely  vanished  before  the  opening  of 
his  Commission. — In  short,  I  believe,  that  at  St. 

J s's  they  have  only  now  the  wicked  hopes  of 

being  able  to  protract  the  war — and  this  I  believe, 
in  my  conscience,  they  will  do — so  long  as  Fleets, 
and  Armies  can  be  paid  for. — They  laugh  at  the 
Declaration  of  Independence — and  though  cool  and 
serious  people,  must  think  it  the  worst  piece  of  in 
telligence  that  was  ever  communicated  to  this 
Country — I  have  no  doubt  but  it  will  be  made  a 
matter  of  Triumph  with  the  Government,  as  ful 
filling  the  Ministerial  Prophecies  of  that  event. 

In  their  exultation,  they  will  not  choose  to  re 
member,  that  Independence  was  not  predetermin 
ed  in  America,  but  is  only  the  immediate,  and  ne 
cessary  consequence  of  their  own  acts.  I  can 
only  say  as  Lord  Chatham  did  upon  some  such 
occasion,  "God  may  perhaps  forgive  them — but 
their  Country  never  will." 

By  the  Post  of  to-day,  we  have  just  heard,  that 
Sir  Peter  Parker,  and  General  Clinton,  have  been 
but  indifferently  received  at  South  Carolina.  I 
suppose  the  Gazette  will  not  give  any  particular 


1221  ] 

accounts  of  this  expedition — but  if  the  experiment 
is  lost — some  notice  must  be  taken  of  it. 

I  have  not  at  present  a  single  correspondent  in 
London,  so  that  I  shall  be  much  obliged  to  you  for 
any  particulars,  that  may  arrive  upon  the  interest 
ing  subject  of  America — especially  such  as  are 
not  likely  to  make  their  appearance  in  the  Gazette. 
Mrs.  C.  unites  with  me  in  sincerest  regards  and 
wishes  to  you  and  Mrs.  Izard. 

I  am,  dear  sir, 

Very  heartily  yours, 
C.C. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  Claude  Crespigny,  Esq. 
RICHMOND,  August  31,  1776. 

DEAR  SIR  : — 

We  are  very  happy  to  hear  of  the 
favorable  change  in  Mrs.  Crespigny. 

They  laugh,  you  say,  at  St.  James's  at  the  De- 
20* 


[  222  ] 

claration  of  Independence.  I  do  not  know  that 
they  have  much  cause  to  do  so. 

When  the  Duke  of  Braganza,  declared  Portu 
gal  Independent  of  Spain,  and  himself  King  of 
it — the  Count  Duke  Olivarez,  affected  likewise  to 
laugh.  Philip  the  Fourth  was  persuaded  to  think 
it  a  very  pleasant  and  comical  circumstance. — 
This  minister  made  him  believe,  that  there  would 
be  such  confiscations — as  would  abundantly  recom 
pense  him  for  the  trouble  these  few  factious  peo 
ple  would  give  him.  The  King,  however,  was 
deceived — and  the  Spanish  Monarchy  dismem 
bered. 

Perhaps  some  Historian  may  find  a  parallel  to 
this  Spanish  story. 

I  believe  the  History  of  Europe  does  not  fur 
nish  so  extraordinary  an  affair— as  the  late  defeat 
at  Charlestown. 

Last  year's  Algerine  expedition,  is  not  to  be 
compared  to  it.  The  Ministry  must  have  great 
confidence  in  the  passive  tempers  of  the  Nation, 
to  impose  such  an  account  on  them,  as  appeared 
in  last  Saturday's  Gazette.  There  must  certainly 
have  been  a  misunderstanding  between  the  two 
departments — which,  however  pleasing  it  may  be 
to  those  who  are  enemies  to  the  doctrine  of  pas 
sive  obedience — and  unconditional  submission, 


[223  J 

much  behooves  the  supporters  of  the  measures  to 
enquire  into. 

Clinton  has  always  borne  the  character  of  a 
brave — and  good  Officer— it  is  therefore  the  more 
extraordinary,  that  he  should  have  been  landed  on 
a  sandbank,  (Long  Island,  and  Sullivan's  Island, 
are  nothing  else,)  from  the  9th  to  the  28th,  with 
out  sounding  the  water,  and  knowing  that  it  was 
too  deep  to  walk  across. 

Sir  Peter  Parker  tells  us,  that  he  drove  large 
parties  several  times  out  of  the  Fort,  which  were 
replaced  by  others  from  the  main.  This  Fort  was 
a  temporary  thing — built  to  annoy  the  shipping  in 
their  passage  to  the  town.  It  was  not  expected, 
that  it  would  have  been  necessary  to  defend  it,  for 
upwards  often  hours — against  a  Bomb  Vessel — and 
eight  or  nine  Men-of-War. 

The  Powder  I  dare  say  was  very  near  ex 
hausted  ;  and  the  men  whom  Sir  Peter  supposes  he 
had  driven  out— might  probably  have  been  messen 
gers  for  a  fresh  supply. 

The  large  parties  might  have  been  small  ones. 
"We  know  that  the  Provincial  numbers,  at  Bun 
ker's  Hill— were  by  the  Gazette,  multiplied  at  least 
by  five.  Objects  seen  through  the  medium  of 
Smoke,  and  Fire,  are  always  considerably  magni 
fied. 


[224  ] 

If  the  fort  was  evacuated  for  an  hour  and  a  half 
as  he  writes — why  did  he  not  take  possession  of  it  ? 
He  would,  I  believe,  have  found  himself  mistaken, 
if  he  had  attempted  it. 

But  the  Fort  was  totally  silenced — very  likely 
and  for  the  reason  just  assigned.  It  requires  a 
great  quantity  of  Powder  to  fire  Cannon.  While 
this  was  bringing,  I  cannot  help  thinking  that  my 
Countrymen  had  sagacity  enough,  to  lie  perdu, 
behind  the  Parapet — to  defend  themselves  against 
the  boasted  coup  de  main,  with  their  small  arms. 

The  Gazette  does  not  announce  the  actual  de 
parture  of  any  of  the  Ships  from  Charlestown  Har 
bour.  The  want  of  water  will  oblige  them  to  be 
as  expeditious  as  possible.  They  may  accommo 
date  themselves,  with  that  article  at  Staten  Island — 
and  nowhere^else  with  safety — that  I  know  of— to 
the  Southward  of  that. 

If  Mrs.  Crespigny  will  lend  you  her  plan — you 
will  see  that  they  must  pass  within  the  reach  of 
two  Batteries — which  may  give  them  a  pretty 
warm  Salute — at  taking  leave. 

Very  important  news,  may  be  expected  every 
day  from  New- York.  The  Ministry  I  hear  are 
fully  persuaded  that  Mr.  Howe  will  winter  in 
Philadelphia.  This  is  possible  ;  but  I  have  not  the 
least  Idea,  that  it  will  happen. 


[225] 

You  know  my  opinion  on  the  probable  event, 
of  this  cruel,  and  unfortunate  business.  I  have 
had  no  reason  to  change  it  since  I  saw  you. 

Pray  give  my  compliments  to  Mr.  Townshend 
and  Mr.  Ley. 


From  Claude  Crespigny,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 
TINGMOUTH,  DEVONSHIRE,  September  6, 1776. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  return  you  many  thanks,  for  your 
favor  of  the  31st,  and  must  beg  that  your  next 
may  be  directed  to  me,  in  the  Crescent,  at  Bath. 
I  propose  to  be  there  on  this  day  se'nnight. 

Mrs.  C.  who  desires  me  to  thank  you  for  the 
plan  you  was  so  kind  as  to  send  her — is  entirely  re 
covered.  Not  so  with  me — but  the  Bath  waters 
are  to  do  wonders  for  me. 

I  sincerely  congratulate  you  on  the  Carolina 
business.  It  seems  to  me  to  have  been  as  ill  con 
ducted — as  it  was  unsuccessful.  Was  General  Lee 


[226] 

there  ?  I  hope  he  was.  I  believe  him  to  be  very 
able — and  I  want  him  to  give  proofs  of  his  being 
to  be  trusted. 

To  see  a  K ,  a  Tyrant,  and  his  Ministers 

Tools — and  Rogues — is  not  very  surprising. — But 
to  see  a  whole  Nation  mad — is  rather  more  extra 
ordinary. — Even  now,  I  can  scarce  meet  with  one 
man  in  Twenty — who  does  not  wish  to  see  the  na 
tion,  and  himself  a  Bankrupt — rather  than  not  bring 
America  to  the  feet  of.  Lord  George  Germaine. 
This  indeed  is  an  addressing  Country — and  a 
blessed  stock  of  Tories  overrun  it. 

I  am  called  away — and  if  I  were  not — I  have 
neither  news,  or  entertainment,  to  send  you.  We 
unite  most  heartily  in  regards  and  best  wishes  to 
yourself,  and  Mrs.  Izard,  and  family. 

I  am  very  heartily, 
Yours, 

C.  C . 


[  227  ] 

From  George  Livins,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

CALCUTTA,  September  15,  1776. 
DEAR  IZARD  : — 

With  much  impatience  I  have  ex 
pected  letters  from  you,  and  am  disappointed. 
The  Gemmells  informed  me  of  your  health,  which 
proved  indeed  very  satisfactory,  for  my  anxiety 
was  very  great.  That  all  these  troubles  should 
have  happened  since  we  have  had  any  intelligence 
from  Europe — and  not  a  single  line  from  you  !  I 
assure  you  this  has  affected  me  much — for  none  of 
my  American  friends  have  written  to  me — and  the 
Calamity  which  threatens  both  Countries  engages 
much  of  my  attention,  and  depresses  me  greatly. 

I  hope  in  God  some  unforeseen,  favorable  event, 
will  happen — for  nothing  can  be  more  deplorable, 
than  the  accounts  we  have  received  here. 

I  look  to  the  worst,  and  will  venture  to  speak, 
and  think  freely  to  you.  I  have  a  prospect  of  get 
ting  some  money,  in  this  Country — and  therefore 
will,  without  studying  formalities,  and  modes  of 
expression—take  the  liberty  to  beseech  you  to  ac- 


[  228  ] 

cept  of,  and  to  excuse  the  freedom  of  my  enclos 
ing  you  bills  for  two  hundred  pounds — which  you 
will  dispose  of  as  you  shall  think  proper ;  had  I 
more  (perhaps  I  shall  presently)  I  would  trouble 
you  with  it — remittances  may  be  stopped  with  you, 
and  six  months  will  restore  all.  I  should  say  a 
great  deal  upon  my  presuming  so  much  ;  but  all  I 
could  add,  would  prove  deficient — and  unsatisfac 
tory,  on  this  head  ;  and  my  mind,  and  spirits,  are 
so  jaded  by  the  climate — and  state  of  things  here — 
that  I  scarce  know  myself;  but  should  I  live  once 
more  to  see  you — I  should  be  happier  than  ever.  I 
often  think  of  all  my  friends  from  whom  I  thus  ex 
ist  in  cruel  banishment. 

I  have  many  things  to  say  to  you— but  being  at 
present  ill — and  having  letters  to  write — I  am 
obliged  to  break  off  abruptly.  Adieu,  Adieu,  think 
of  an  absent  friend,  and  let  me  receive  a  line. 

Ever  yours, 

GEORGE  LIVJNS. 


L  229  ] 

f 

From  Claude  Crespigny,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 
BATH,  October  15,  1776. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

Many  thanks  to  you  for  your  favor 
of  the  12th.  It  has  revived  me  much.  The  ex 
ultation  of  the  Tories,  and  Ministerialists — added  to 
the  dejection  of  the  few  here,  who  think  with  me — 
had  I  confess — made  me  fear  the  late  advantage, 
was  of  more  consequence,  than  at  first  it  appeared 
to  me. 

I  do  assure  you  my  own  thoughts  corresponded, 
very  much,  with  what  you  say — but  when  on  one 
hand  they  asserted  that  the  men  would  not  stand — 
were  sickly — and  discontented  with  their  leaders, 
&c.,  and  that  I  found  these  assertions  very  faintly 
denied  on  the  other  side — I  began  to  think  that 
Tyranny  would  be  triumphant,  without  any  fur 
ther  check.  From  what  you  say,  I  have  recover 
ed  my  hopes — as  I  know  that  you  do  not  suffer 
your  reason  to  be  partial  to  your  wishes — but  that 
you  speak  from  information,  and  well  founded  be 
lief. 

21 


[  230  J 

That  the  troops  at  Long  Island  should  have  left 
their  entrenchments  is  to  be  sure  very  unaccounta 
ble.  When  you  hear  any  better  news,  you  will  I 
hope  favor  me  with  it — especially  such  news,  as  the 
Gazette  either  takes  no  notice  of— or  falsifies. 

I  hope  that  General  Howe  is  out  in  his  compu 
tation  of  the  number  killed,  and  drowned — and  I 
should  suppose  him  mistaken  in  the  number  de 
tached  by  Putnam,  from  the  Entrenchments. 

The  Bells  were  set  a  ringing,  and  Bonfires  a 
blazing  at  midnight,  upon  the  arrival  of  the  Ga 
zette.       ******* 
All  the  Invalids,  and  some  moderate  people  were 

much  offended,  at  being  so  disturbed,  and  alarmed. 

******** 

Mrs.  C.  writes  with  me  in  best  regards. 
I  am,  Dear  Sir,  very  sincerely, 
Yours, 
C. 


[  231  ] 

From  the  same  to  the  same. 

BATH,  October  24,  1776. 
DEAR  SIR: — 

Your  favor  of  to-day  has  given  us 
very  sincere  pleasure.  Mrs.  C.  bids  me  say,  she 
can  have  no  possible  objection  to  her  brother 
Sponser,  nor  any  to  the  intended  name— unless  you 
add  Tertius  to  it. 

I  am  obliged  to  you  for  your  letter  of  yesterday, 
and  am  sorry  that  these  horrid  times,  make  it  ne 
cessary  for  you  to  separate  from  your  family — 
though  but  for  a  twelvemonth.  It  would  give 
Mrs.  C.  and  me  infinite  pleasure  if  we  could,  dur 
ing  your  absence,  in  any  way  contribute  to  Mrs. 
I.'s  comfort.  Would  it  be  agreeable  to  her,  if  she 
could  meet  with  a  lodging  very  near  us  for  the 
children — to  favor  us  with  her  company  till  you 
return.  If  such  a  plan  can  be  made  suitable  to 
her — be  assured,  it  would  make  us  happy.  I  men 
tion  it  for  your  consideration,  and  only  beg  that 
you  will  not  think  yourself  obliged  by  the  offer, 
but  will  accept  it  without  hesitation — if  you  find  it 


[  232] 

agreeable,  and  convenient  to  Mrs.  I.  If  this  offer 
be  not  accepted,  give  me  leave  to  add,  that  if  in 
consequence  of  these  unhappy  times,  Mrs.  I. 
should  during  your  absence,  want  such  a  sum  of 
money,  as  a  man  who  is  not  rich — can  afford  to 
lend — I  hope  she  will  let  me  know  it — and  give  me 
the  pleasure  of  doing  her  that,  or  any  other  act  of 
friendship  in  my  power. 

By  letters  I  have  lately  received,  I  have  great 
reason  to  fear,  that  I  am  myself  likely  to  suf 
fer  considerably — in  consequence  of  these  wicked 
proceedings — but  my  sufferings  are  nothing,  com 
paratively  to  those  of  others. 

I  hope  you  will  find  your  affairs  in  America  in  a 
better  state  than  you  expect— and  that  you  may 
find  Mrs  I.  and  your  family,  in  good  health  at  your 
return. 

When  you  have  fixed  upon  your  time  for  going 
I  wish  you  would  let  me  know  it — as  it  is  more 
than  probable,  that  I  shall  have  occasion  to  go  to 
Town  before  X  mas — and  would  if  possible  con 
trive  to  see  you  before  you  go. 

We  are  still  impatient  to  hear  from  New- York. 
An  account  which  is  Credited  came  yesterday  from 
Bristol — of  Howe's  taking  possession  of  it — and 
though  you  reason  very  well  against  it — I  am  in 
my  own  mind,  satisfied,  that  he  will  attempt  to 


J[  233  ] 

force  Washington's  Lines.  He  will  never,  with 
such  a  force,  think  the  taking  of  New  York  for 
Winter  Quarters,  a  proper  finishing  to  a  whole 
summer's  campaign.  * 

Mrs.  C.  joins  in  best  regards,  and  wishes  to  you 
and  Mrs.  Izard. 

T  am,  dear  sir, 
Very  sincerely,  yours, 
C.  C. 


From  Mr.  Izard  Jo  Claude  Crespigny,  Esq. 
RICHMOND,  October  29,  ]  776. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  am  infinitely  obliged  to  you  for  your 
last  letter,  and  assure  you  that  the  contents  of  it, 
have  very  sensibly  affected  me.  There  is  no  family 
under  whose  protection  I  should  feel  so  much 
satisfaction,  in  leaving  my  wife,  and  children,  as 
yours.  It  is  not  yet  determined  whether  it  will  be 
best  for  them  to  be  in  France — or  England. 
21* 


[  234  ] 

If  the  latter,  your  neighborhood  would  on  every 
account,  be  our  choice.  The  retirement  to  which 
Mrs.  Izard  is  inclined — makes  us  fearful  of  incom 
moding  Mrs.  Crespigny — and  therefore  of  accept 
ing  your  friendly  offer ;  believe  me,  however, 
when  I  assure  you  it  has  made  a  very  proper  im 
pression  on  us  both.  England  is  the  most  agree 
able  place  for  them  without  doubt ;  but  if  there 
should  be  a  French  War — it  will  be  difficult  to  get 
to  France  from  hence.  I  am  glad  to  hear  there  is 
a  probability  of  your  coming  to  London  before 
Christmas — and  hope  we  may  expect  to  see  Mrs. 
Crespigny  with  you. 

As  soon  as  my  plan  is  fully  settled— I  shall  cer 
tainly  inform  you  of  it,  and  if  you  should  be  pre 
vented  from  coming  to  Town — I  will  contrive  to 
see  you  before  my  departure. 

The  account  of  the  evacuation  of  New- York, 
though  not  yet  confirmed — is  generally  believed  ; 
I  think  nothing  is  more  probable. 

If  New- York  was  not  an  object  for  Howe  to  at 
tack — neither  could  it  have  been  one  for  the  Ame 
ricans  to  defend.  The  conquerors  at  King's  Bridge, 
must  have  it  during  the  winter — let  who  will  be  in 
possession  on  the  15th  September. 


[  235  ] 

From  Claude  Crespigny,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 
BATH,  November  4,  1776. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  have  been  favoured  with  yours 
of  the  29th  October.  ***** 
I  most  impatiently  wish  for  the  account  of  the  at 
tack  at  King's  Bridge.  The  event  of  that  day 
will  be  very  material — though  I  believe  far  from 
decisive. 

You  see  that  the  Ministry  still  talk — as  well  as  his 
Majesty — of  the  pacific  intentions  of  the  House  of 
Bourbon.  But  the  actions  of  all  parties  corres 
pond  so  ill  with  their  assurances — that  I  think  it 
would  be  the  height  of  folly,  to  have  any  confi 
dence  in  them. 

My  wife  joins  in  best  regards  to  Mrs.  Izard,  and 
you. 

I  am,  dear  sir, 

Very  heartily  yours, 
CLAUDE  CRESPIGNY. 


From  the  same  to  the  same. 

BATH,  December  15,  1776. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

It  is  near  a  fortnight  since  I 
was  favored   with   yours.     I  am  much  ashamed 
not  to  have  thanked  you  for  it  before. — No  news 
yet  arrived  from  New- York. — I  begin  to  think  that 
Sir  W.  Howe,  will  be  satisfied  with  New- York 
for  his  winter  quarters — and  will  finish  the  glorious 
Campaign,  without  attempting  to  force  Washing 
ton's  lines.     Mr.  Burgoyne,  since  his  return,  I  find, 
affects  great  silence,  and  only  says — that  Carlton 
intends  to  begin  the  next  Campaign,  as  early  as 
possible,  with  the  attack  of  Ticonderoga. — Dacre 
who  was  sent  home  with  the  account  of  the  suc 
cess  upon  the  Lakes — does  justice  to  Arnold,  and 
acknowldges  that  the  disposition  of  his  force — the 
defence  he  made  against  so  superior  an  enemy — 
and  the  management  of  his  retreat — all  did  him 
great  honor.     Every  one,  as  you  may  imagine,  is 
impatient  to  hear  from  the  Howes.     The  Ministe 
rialists  pretend  to  fear,  that  they  are  treating  with 


I  237  ] 

the  Rebels — and  are  inclined  to  give  too  good  terms 
—before  they  have  given  them  a  hearty  drubbing 
(their  very  words.) 

For  my  own  part — I  totally  despair  of  any  ami 
cable  settlement  of  the  dispute — and  sincerely  la 
ment  the  bruises  that  both  parties  must  receive. — 
At  the  same  time — I  most  heartily  execrate  the 
authors  of  the  mischief— and  detest  still  more,  if 
possible,  their  senseless  addressers — who  are  still 
crying  out  for  more  vengeance — and  for  risking 
every  thing — rather  than  not  have  their  full  of  it. 

As  to  the  French  and  Spaniards — they  hold  in 
contempt  the  idea  of  their  interference — and  if  they 
should  be  such  fools — why,  we  will  kill  them  too. 

Admiral  Keppel  has  (upon  being  applied  to)  ac 
cepted  the  Command  of  the  grand  Fleet  of  obser 
vation,  which  is  intended  for  the  protection  of  this 
country  against  our  natural  enemies — at  the  same 
time  fully  declaring  his  perseverance  in  his  senti 
ments  of  the  impolicy  of  our  contest— with_our  fel 
low  subjects  of  America.  He  seems  just  the  same 
as  last  year,  very  well  in  health,  but  still  afflicted 
with  the  spasms  in  his  legs.  He  desires,  as  does 
Mr.  Rogers,  his  best  compliments  to  you  and  Mrs. 
Izard.  When  you  have  fixed  upon  your  time  for 
leaving  England — I  hope  you  will  acquaint  me 


[  238  ] 

with  it.     My  wife  unites  with  me  in  best  regards 
to  you,  Mrs.  Izard,  and  all  your  family. 
I  am,  dear  sir, 

Very  heartily  yours, 
CLAUDE  CRESPIGNY. 


From  John  Laurens,  Esq.  to  Mr  Izard. 

BORDEAUX,  January  27,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  am  on  the  eve  of  embarking  for 
Cape  FranQois,  where  I  shall  not  be  detained  for 
want  of  opportunies  to  the  Continent. 

Since  I  arrived  in  this  place — I  received  a  letter 
of  my  Fathers,  dated  16th  September,  which,  after 
having  been  detained  a  long  time  here,  by  a  gentle 
man  desirous  of  delivering  it  with  his'own  hands — 
had  proceeded  as  far  as  the  mouth  of  the  Garonne, 
on  its  way  to  England. 

In  this  letter  you  are  mentioned ;  my  Father 
says  he  never  hears  from  you,  by  any  opportunity. 


L  239  ] 

******  "In  my  journey 
to  Santee,  I  mean  to  visit  Mr.  Izard's  plantations, 
perhaps  I  may  not  write  to  him  by  this  opportuni 
ty — he  writes  to  me  by  none.  Tell  him  his  affairs 
are  in  as  good  order  as  my  own — and  that  I  have 
done  more  for  him  than  I  have  for  myself— bad — 
very  bad,  at  best."  *  *  *  *  * 

There  is  nothing  new  here — except  that  orders 
arrived  here  last  Friday,  from  Court — to  lay  an 
Embargo,  upon  all  Naval  Stores. — Some  people 
think  this  indicates  War. 

My  best  respects  wait  on  Mrs.  Izard  ;  my  good 
wishes  ever  attend  you  and  yours,  and 
I  remain  your  friend,  and 

Humble  servant, 
JOHN  LAURENS. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  Mr.  Bousie,  at  Paris. 
RICHMOND,  January  31,  1777. 

The  unfortunate  situation  of  American  affairs 
obliges  me  to  determine  on  the  strictest  economy. 


[  240  ] 

I  am  for  several  reasons  strongly  inclined  to 
carry  my  Family  to  France  ;  but  to  what  part — or 
what  plan  to  follow — I  am  very  doubtful  about. 
Circumstances  may  happen  during  the  course  of 
the  ensuing  Twelvemonth — which  may  make  it  ne 
cessary  for  me  to  go  to  America — and  leave  my 
family  behind.  ***** 

I  have  communicated  my  intentions  to  several 
friends,  who  have  correspondents  in  France — and 
they  have  been  so  obliging  as  to  make  enquiries 
for  me.  Limoges — Libourne — and  several  other 
proper  places  in  point  of  economy — have  been 
pointed  out  to  me.  But  as  there  are  some  very 
interesting  things  on  the  Tapis — I  should  not  choose 
to  be  at  so  great  a  distance  from  Paris.  This  is 
my  reason  for  declining  to  go  Nantes — where  I  am 
assured  my  family  might  be  accommodated  much 
to  my  satisfaction — upon  very  moderate  terms.  I 
am  desirous  of  being  in,  or  near  Paris — for  three  or 
four  of  the  summer  months,  at  least. 

If  in  Paris,  I  should  choose,  on  account  of  my 
children — to  be  near  one  of  the  public  Gardens,  a 
friend  of  mine  recommends  St.  Germains  to  me. 
I  beg  to  know  your  opinion  whether  the  plan  of 
Boarding  my  family  in  Paris— or  St.  Germains,  is 
practicable.  ******* 

My  family  consists  of  my  Wife,  two  Daughters, 


[  241  ] 

and  two  sons,  together  with  one  man  servant,  and 
two  maids.     I  am  ashamed  to  give  you  so  much 
trouble,  but  hope  you  will  excuse  it.     Mrs.  Izard 
joins  me  in  compliments  to  Mrs.  Bousie,  and 
I  am,  dear  sir, 

Yours,  &c. 
RA.  IZARD. 


From  John  Lloyd,  Esq.  to  Mr.  Izard. 

NANTES,  February  14,  1777, 
DEAR  SIR  : — • 

As  I  cannot  advise  you  to  pursue 
the  route  which  I  took  to  come  here,  I  think  it 
needless  to  trouble  you  with  any  very  particular 
observations — or  to  give  you  a  very  minute  detail 
respecting  it — I  shall,  therefore,  be  very  brief  in  my 
information. 

We  embarked  at  Southampton,  the  10th  ult.,  and. 
by  contrary  winds,  were  obliged  to  put  into  Yar 
mouth,  in  the  Isle  of  Wight,  which  place  we  left 
22 


[  242  ] 

on  the  18th,  and  arrived  at  Guernsey  the  20th. 
Our  stay  there,  was  till  the  24th,  when  we  re-em 
barked,  and  landed  the  next  morning  at  St.  Malo's. 
Its  Harbour  is  so  environed  with  rocks,  that  it  is 
truly  tremendous — but  what  adds  considerably  to 
the  risque  of  approaching  it,  is,  that  great  numbers 
of  them  lie  concealed  at  high  water  ;  we  were  in 
great  danger  in  entering,  on  account  of  the  want 
of  knoweldge,  in  the  Pilot  we  took  on  board  at 
Guernsey — a  circumstance  we  did  not  know;  till 
after  we  were  safe  on  shore. 

Having  letters  of  introduction  to  some  principal 
Merchants,  as  an  American,  I  was  received  with 
great  civility  and  respect — and  readily  obtained  an 
extraordinary  indulgence  respecting  the  examina 
tion,  and  landing  of  our  baggage. 

It  was  fortunate  that  we  brought  our  Carriages, 
as  St.  Malo's  could  not  have  furnished  us  with 
convenient  ones.  Mrs.  Lloyd,  being  very  much 
indisposed,  I  was  on  that  account  detained  there 
till  the  1st  inst,  when  we  set  off,  and  got  here  on 
the  3d.  The  roads  were  rather  better  than  I  ex 
pected — but  God  knows,  they  were  bad  enough.  In 
the  summer,  I  think  they  must  be  tolerably  good. 

A  large  ship,  last  week,  arrived  at  L'Orient,  in 
six  weeks  from  Charleston,  bound  to  this  Port ; 
she  has  on  board  five  hundred  barrels  of  Rice — and 


I  343  ] 

upwards  of  sixty  thousand  pounds  of  Indigo  ; — the 
Cargo  (except  fourteen  thousand  pounds  of  the 
Indigo,  which  is  on  private  account.)  belongs  to  the 
State,  and  as  it  comes  to  a  good  market — it  will  pro 
duce  a  great  profit,  and  neat  at  least.  Eighteen 
Thousand  Pounds  Sterling.  It  is  under  the  care 
of  a  Supercargo,  whose  name  is  Brown — he  is  a 
grandson  of  old  Mr.  Thomas,  whom  you  may,  per 
haps,  remember  seeing  at  Bath. 

The  young  gentleman  came  here  express,  for 
the  needful  instructions,  about  bringing  the  ship  to 
Painboeuf ;  his  stay  in  town  was  so  very  short, 
and  his  business  employing  his  whole  attention, 
that  I  had  not  time  to  be  particular  in  my  enqui 
ries — indeed,  I  thought  it  the  less  necessary,  as  he 
assured  me  that  he  should  return  in  three  days,  the 
expectation  of  his  doing  so,  occasioned  my  delay 
of  writing  to  you — but  yesterday,  a  message  came 
from  him  to  say,  that  some  business  had,  and  would 
detain  him  a  few  days  longer,  upon  which  I  re 
solved  not  to  defer  it  to  any  further  period. 

The  latest  paper  he  had,  is  dated  12th  Decem 
ber,  and  contains  the  following  very  material  in 
telligence  : — 


[  244  ] 


In  the   General  Assembly,  the  llth  day  of 
October,  1776. 

"  Resolved,  That  it  is  the  opinion  of  this  House, 
"  that  no  person  in  this  State,  indebted  to  any  per- 
"  sons  subjects  to  the  King  of  Great  Britain,  (the 
"  inhabitants  of  Bermuda,  and  the  Bahama  Islands 
"  excepted,)  or  to  any  Attorney  within  the  State, 
"  for  any  such  subject,  (except  as  aforesaid.)  ought 
"  to  remit  or  pay  directly — or  indirectly — to  any  such 
"  subjects  (except  as  before  excepted)  or  for  their 
"  use — any  sum  of  Money,  or  Merchandise,  what- 
"  soever,  until  it  shall  be  otherwise  directed  by  law  ,- 
"  except  Attornies  for  Persons,  usually  Residents  in 
"  this  State — now  in  Great  Britain — and  intending 
"  to  return,  as  soon  as  possible,  to  this  State — and 
"  the  Parents,  and  Guardians  of  youth,  now  resid- 
"  ing,  and  educating  in  Great  Britain — or  in  any 
"  other  part  of  Europe — which  last  mentioned  At- 
"  tornies — Parents,  and  Guardians,  may  be  at  lib- 
"  erty  to  remit  for  the  use  of  their  Constituents — 
"Children — and  Wards— such  sums  as  they  shall 
"  think  necessary,  and  expedient  for  their  support, 
"  or  Education,  and  maintenance.  Resolved,  also, 
"  that  it  is  the  opinion  of  the  House,  that  all  the 
"  Absentees,  holding  Estates  in  this  State,  should 


[  245  ] 

"  use  every  means  in  their  power,  forthwith  to  re- 
"  turn  to  this  State. 

By  Order  of  the  House. 
Signed,  PETER  TIMOTHY,  A.  G.  A." 

The  General  Assembly  met  at  Charleston,  the 
10th  December, — there  is  nothing  particular  in  the 
President's  Speech — or  in  the  addresses  to  him. 
Hugh  Rutledge  is  speaker  of  the  Legislative  Coun 
cil.  Colonel  Williamson  had  concluded  a  Treaty 
of  Peace  with  the  Cherokees. 

The  Cattle,  and  Stock,  by  a  resolution  of  the 
General  Assembly,  are  ordered  to  be  removed 
with  the  utmost  expedition  from  the  following 
Islands,  (viz.) — Bulls — Capeis  —  Kegwah — Daw- 
furkers — Pinckney's  —  South — Cole  Folly — Mur 
phy's,  and  the  Hunting  Islands. 

The  expedition  against  Florida,  came  to  nothing 
— owing  to  the  improper  Season,  for  such  an  under 
taking. 

Having  only  a  few  minutes  conversation  with 
Mr.  Brown — and  seeing  only  two  papers — and  not 
receiving  any  letter — I  am  but  little  qualified  to 
transmit  you  the  occurrences,  and  state  of  affairs  in 
Carolina.  It  concerns  one  exceedingly,  to  find  that 
they  continue  very  much  distressed  for  the  want 
of  a  great  number  of  necessary  articles — especially 
22* 


[  240  ] 

Woollens  ;  an  inferior  kind  of  Cloth  proper  for  the 
clothing  of  Negroes — has  been  sold  at  ten  shillings 
the  yard. 

The  supplies  hitherto  from  this  Kingdom — to  our 
State — have  been  comparatively  very  trifling — nor 
do  I  see  any  immediate  prospect  of  their  being 
more  considerable.  By  a  ship  that  is  intended  to 
go  there — and  will  sail  in  about  ten  days — I  shall 
write  upon  some  consequential  business  to  the  gen 
tlemen  in  power.  The  intercourse  is  not  so  well 
established  as  I  could  wish. 

I  have  in  contemplation  a  scheme,  for  the  send 
ing  out  some  Vessels  —and  which  I  hope  soon  to 
accomplish.  There  never  was  an  opening  for  a 
greater  Commercial  advantage — nevertheless  the 
French  Merchants  are  not  easily  persuaded  to 
speculations. 

Your  Friend,  Mr.  Lee,  has  been  here  on  publick 
business  for  a  few  days.  He  left  us  this  morning 
for  Bordeaux.  He  has,  I  find,  sent  you  Mr.  Mon- 
tondonin's  information — respecting  your  residence 
here — which  renders  any  communication  from  me 
needless  ;  indeed,  I  am  not  yet  qualified  to  write 
you  upon  the  subject — all  I  can  at  present  say  is — 
that  the  town  is  plentifully  supplied  with  provisions 
of  every  kind — and  which  in  general,  are  very  good, 
and  cheap.  Whitsuntide  is  the  season  for  remo- 


L  247  j 

vals — in  the  intermediate  time — it  is  difficult,  nay, 
almost  impossible,  to  procure  convenient  apart 
ments — which  are  in  very  great  demand,  owing  to 
the  populousness  of  the  City — which  contains  up 
wards  of  one  hundred  thousand  inhabitants — and  the 
great  resort  of  Strangers  to  it.  I  am  told  that  such 
Lodgings  as  would  accommodate  your  family — are 
let  at  about  thirty-five  pounds  sterling,  a  year, — 
but  you  must  hire  furniture,  which  I  am  informed, 
may  be  procured  for  the  year — from  fifteen  to  twen 
ty  guineas.  There  is  no  family  who  would  re 
ceive  yours  to  board — that  you  would  approve  of. 
In  short,  if  you  determine  on  a  residence  here — you 
must  not  come,  before  every  thing  is  ready  for 
your  reception,  or  you  may  be  obliged  to  stay  at 
a  Hotel — which  is  a  receptacle  of  dirt — and  filth. 

There  is  certainly  an  exceeding  good  society 
(from  all  accounts)  for  those  who  can  speak  the 
language  -and  an  American  commands  their  ut 
most  civility  and  respect.  The  Town  for  a  Sea 
Port,  I  think  very  eligible — its  buildings  are  every 
day  increasing — and  those  (of  which  there  are  great 
numbers)  lately  erected,  have  a  very  superb  appear 
ance.  It  is  undoubtedly  the  most  convenient,  and 
suitable  place  in  France,  for  an  intercourse  with 
America,  whilst  affairs  are  on  their  present  footing. 

Mr.  Morris,  the  supreme  Commercial  Agent  for 


[  248  ] 

the  Congress,  resides  here — who  told  me,  that  he 
had  lately  forwarded  to  you  a  letter  from  Phila 
delphia—which  I  suppose  has  acquainted  you  with 
the  departure  of  our  deservedly  respected  friend, 
Mr.  Lynch.  His  last  attack  was  in  November, 
upon  his  return  to  Carolina — it  was  not  far  distant 
from  Philadelphia,  to  where  he  was  taken  back. 

The  Houses  being  in  general  very  large,  and  lof 
ty,  families  occupy  different  floors,  as  in  Edinburgh 
style,  and  great  numbers  reside  under  the  same 
roof. 

Mr.  Verplank,  of  New- York,  is  here — and  sev 
eral  other  Americans.  Mr.  Laurens  lately  em 
barked  from  Bordeaux.  There  being  no  dates 
from  America  since  the  surrender  of  Fort  Wash 
ington — I  am  not  possessed  of  anything  new,  from 
thence — nor  in  short,  do  I  recollect  any  circum 
stances  further  material,  at  present,  to  acquaint  you 
with — except  that  the  Reprisal,  Captain  Weeks, 
who  (entre  nous)  is  cruising  in  the  Bay — has  sent  a 
Vessel  loaded  with  fish,  from  Newfoundland  into 
L'Orient  —  the  news  came  here  last  night,  her 
name  is  not  known. 

I  suppose  the  proceedings,  respecting  her,  will 
be  the  same  as  with  the  prizes  he  took  and  sent  into 
Quiberoon.  A  repetition  of  such  conduct,  I  think 
must  inevitably  bring  matters  to  a  decisive  point — 


[  249  ] 

between  two  rival  powers — who  both  appear  to  be 
preparing  for  War. 

To  convey  this  letter  to  you  with  more  certain 
ty,  I  have  put  it  under  cover.  *  *  * 
It  is  unnecessary  for  me  to  assure  you  that  my 
services  here  are  at  your  command.  If  you  have 
occasion  to  write  upon  any  material  subject — en 
close  your  letter  for  me  to  Monsieur  J.  D.  Sweig- 
hausen. 

Adieu. 

Yours  sincerely, 

JOHN  LLOYD. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  George  Mercer,  Esq. 

RICHMOND,  February  28,  1777. 

I  thank  you  for  the  particular  account  you  have 
given  me  of  your  enquiries  about  an  accommoda 
tion  for  me.  I  am  very  sensible  that  St.  Omers 
and  several  other  towns  in  that  part  of  the  coun 
try  would  be  cheaper—  and  in  many  instances  more 
agreeable,  than  the  neighborhood  of  Paris — but  in 


[  250  ] 

some  respects  it  would  be  inconvenient  to  me.  If 
I  am  obliged  to  go  far  from  Paris — it  must  be  some 
where  to  the  south-eastward  of  the  great  road  be 
tween  that  city  and  Calais.  Orleans — and  several 
other  places  on  the  Loire — I  am  told,  are  both 
agreeable  and  cheap. 

Such  a  plan  as  mine  I  believe  is  practicable  ; 
the  only  difficulty  is — in  finding  a  friend  who  is 
well  acquainted  with  the  different  Towns. 

I  wonder  that  neither  you,  nor  Mr.  B.  mention 
ed  a  word  of  St.  Germaine's.  It  is  agreeably  situ 
ated — and  as  provisions  are  not  subject  to  the  Pa 
ns  duty — living  there,  must  be  cheaper. 

If  you  are  able  to  collect  any  further  informa 
tion  for  me,  you  will  be  so  good  as  to  write  me 
fully  on  the  subject.  If  the  neighborhood  of  Paris 
will  not  do — I  must  content  myself,  with  being  at  a 
distance  from  it.  At  all  events,  I  must  leave  Eng 
land — for  I  cannot  afford  to  stay  here  any  longer. 
I  have  practised  every  species  of  economy — and 
yet  I  am  dreadfully  in  debt.  I  have  not  received 
a  single  farthing  from  my  Estate  in  America  for 
above  two  years.  This  has  almost  distracted  me, 
and  I  must  contrive  some  method  of  getting  there, 
and  endeavor  to  make  some  remittances. 

I  had  some  money  in  the  hands  of  Sayer  and 
Cook,  which  is  lost  by  their  Bankruptcy.  As  you 


[251   ] 

have  long  known  the  unfortunate  state  of  my 
finances — you  can  easily  judge  how  much  that  must 
have  added  to  my  distress. 


From  Claude  Crespigny,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 
BATH,  March  9, 1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  return  you  many  thanks  for  your 
favor  of  the  3d  and  4th.  It  has  explained  very 
fully  many  parts  of  Sir  W.  H.'s  last  letters,  which 
were  before  very  unintelligible.  One  thing  I  must 
remark,  viz.,  the  Hessian  Minister's  reflection  on 
the  extension  of  the  Army's  chain  of  communica 
tion  ;  this  reflection,  in  all  probability — was  sug 
gested  by  Heisler — and  if  so — can  be  productive  of 
no  good  understanding  between  him,  and  Sir 
Wm.  — — .  You  have  to  be  sure— accounted  for 
that  extension. 

It  is  my  astonishment  that  the  apprehensions  of 
War   still   decrease.     Surely  the  French  cannot 


[  252  ] 

possibly  resist  so  favorable  an  opportunity  of  sink 
ing  this  unhappy  country — and  yet  their  conduct 
seems  very  problematical.  If  they  do  not  assist 
more  vigorously  in  adding  to  the  distresses,  we 
have  most  wickedly  brought  upon  ourselves — the 
good  Angel  of  this  Country — is  much  kinder  to  it 
than  it  deserves. 

Unhappily,  however,  its  utmost  kindness  and 
efforts  cannot  preserve  it  for  any  length  of  time — 
our  increasing  folly — and  wickedness — must  inevi 
tably  bring  us  to  perdition. 

I  dont  know  how  it  may  be  in  London — but  here 
— the  rancour  against  every  man  who  does  not  wish 
well  to  the  doctrine  of  absolute  submission — is  ex 
cessive  ;  and  I  really  think  that  the  violence — and 
madness  of  the  friends  of  that  doctrine — increases 
daily.  If  it  were  not  for  my  friends  and  connec 
tions  in  this  country — I  would  not  live  in  it  a 
month  longer.  By  holding  my  tongue,  I  take  care 
not  to  be  affronted — but  I  daily  hear  so  much  illibe 
ral  invective — that  I  believe  I  shall  soon  confine 
myself  to  the  society  of  my  own  particular  friends. 

I  still  hold  my  intention  of  going  to  town,  next 
week — and  have  set  aside  Monday  24th  to  wait  on 
you  and  Mrs.  Izard.  I  hope  to  be  with  you  by 
noon — but  must  return  to  town  in  the  evening. 


[  253  ] 

Mrs.  C.  unites  with  me  in  best  regards  to  you.  and. 
Mrs.  Izard. 

Admiral  Keppel,  who  is   at  my  elbow,  goes  to 
town   the  latter  end  of  this  week,  or  beginning  of 
next — and   bids  me  send  his  compliments,  and  tell 
you  that  he  shall  be  very  glad  to  see  you  in  Aud- 
ley  Square,  whenever  you  go  that  way. 
Mr.  Rogers  desires  his  compliments. 
I  am,  dear  sir, 

Very  heartily,  yours, 
C.  C. 


From  George  Mercer,  Esq.  to  Mr.  Izard* 

PARIS,  March  12,  1777. 
MY  DEAR  SIR  : — • 

Although  neither  of  us  mentioned 
St.  Germain,  in  particular  to  you,  yet  assure  your 
self  it  was  included  in  the  list  of  our  Researches  ; 
and  G.  M.  not  only  visited  St.  Germain,  on  seeing 
a  house  advertised  there  before  he  wrote  you  last, 
23 


t  254  ] 

but  has  since  been  as  far  as  Nantes  on  the  Seine, 
on  the  same  errand — all  to  no  purpose. 

We  mentioned  in  our  last  the  South  of  France, 
as  the  most  probable  for  you  to  meet  with  ready 
furnished  houses,  and  choap.  A  Pension  (Board 
ing  House)  you  will  not  be  able  to  get,  in  all 
France,  for  such  a  family,  and  we  are  confirmed 
in  this  opinion  by  late  enquiries. 

A  gentleman  who  lives  at  Brienes,  in  the  Limo- 
sin,  affirms,  that  an  officer  lives  there — who  has  a 
wife,  and  ten  children,  and  keeps  all  the  company 
of  the  place,  for  less  than  £300  per  annum.  This 
was  pointed  out  to  you  formerly,  and  is  certainly 
within  the  limits  you  say  you  wish  to  establish 
yourself— as  is  Loches,  in  Touraine,  a  Town  equal 
ly  cheap,  and  agreeable — and  Tours — and  Angers. 

V/e  shall  not  omit  to  search  for  what  you  di 
rect,  in,  and  about  Paris — and  we  will  get  the  best 
information  of  the  Prices,  and  conveniences  of  the 
Country  in  general,  before  you  arrive. 

It  will  certainly  be  best  for  you  to  come  over 
immediately,  with  your  Family — and  if  we  are  not 
able  to  procure  you  a  Mansion  before  you  arrive 
here — you  must  proceed  directly  south — where  you 
may  be  always  furnished  with  one  to  your  own 
mind — and  in  a  country,  where  you  may  live  for 
half  what  you  can  in  Paris,  or  its  neighborhood. 


[  255  ] 

G.  M.  means  to  settle  this  summer  at  Brienes, 
in  Limozin,  and  if  you  determine  to  go  there,  will 
render  you  every  assistance  in  his  power. 

My  best  wishes  attend  Mrs.  I.  and  my  little 
Friends. 


From  John  Lloyd,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

NANTES,  March  20,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  should  not  have  deferred  writing 
to  you,  so  long,  but  from  what  your  friend  Mr. 
Lee  said,  I  was  possessed  with  a  belief  that  you 
would  leave  England,  so  very  soon,  that  I  con 
cluded  to  wait  for  the  pleasure  of  hearing  from 
you — which  gratification  I  have  received,  by  your 
favor  of  the  7th  instant. 

The  only  material  circumstances  that  I  have 
had  to  acquaint  you  of,  were  the  arrival  here  of 
a  vessel  from  Boston,  and  a  packet  sent  by  the 
Congress,  with  dispatches  to  the  Honorable  Com- 


[  256  1 

rnissioners  at  Paris.  All  the  intelligence  that  I 
could  obtain  from  them,  I  transmitted  in  a  very 
particular  manner  to  Mr.  Champion — and  injoinedi 
him  (if  you  were  in  England)  to  communicate  the 
same  to  you  immediately — and  which  request  I 
please  myself  was  instantly  complied  with. 

By  yesterday's  Post,  we  expected  to  have  had 
an  authentic  account  from  Paris,  respecting  the 
contents  of  the  dispatches  to  the  Commissioners — 
our  not  hearing  I  attribute  to  some  detention 
which  the  Captain  must  have  met  with  on  the 
road.  Since  he  went  off  I  have  conversed  with 
the  mate,  and  from  what  I  can  learn  from  him,  I 
am  pretty  certain,  they  only  bring  an  authoritative 
communication  of  the  actions  at  Trenton,  and 
Princeton.  The  Congress,  when  they  came  away, 
(or,  I  should  have  said  the  Committee)  was  at 
Baltimore — but  they  were  about  to  return  to  Phila 
delphia. 

I  did  not  know  till  last  night,  that  any  private 
letter  was  received  by  the  packet — when  a  gentle- 
man,  who  has  made  a.  large  contract  with  Con 
gress,  read  me  an  extract  of  one  he  has  had,  from 
the  Committee,  dated  January,  wherein  they  men 
tion  "  that  the  success  of  the  British  Troops,  was 
"  entirely  owing  to  the  great  assistance  they  re- 
^received  from  the  Navy— without  whose  protco 


[  257  ] 

"  tion  and  support,  their  operations  would  be  of 
"  little  consequence.  That  General  Washington, 
"  to  avail  himself  of  repeated  advantages— was  ad- 
"  vancing  towards  the  enemy,  who  had  retreated 
"  to  Brunswick.  That  it  was  yet  uncertain  whe- 
"  ther  they  intended  to  make  a  stand  at  that  place — 
"  or  abandon  the  Jersies  entirely,  and  embark  for 
"  Staten  Island.  That  Congress  had  resolved  to 
"  raise  one  hundred  and  ten  battalions  of  seven  hun- 
"  dred  and  fifty  of  each,  for  the  service  of  the  en- 
"  suing  Campaign,  which  were  to  be  enlisted  for 
"  three  years.  That  the  people  were  roused  to  a 
"  vigorous  exertion — and  that  their  spirit  was  such, 
"  that  the  new  levies  even  were  completed.  And 
"they  expected  their  whole  force  would  be  ready 
"  to  take  the  field — early  in  the  Spring,  well  equipt." 
The  packet  which  is  arrived,  is  a  very  small 
schooner — but  I  am  told  there  was  one  kept  ready 
at  Baltimore— to  be  dispatched,  that  is  much  larger, 

and  mounts  sixteen  guns. 

******** 

Nantes,  for  a  sea  port  town,  would  not  be  a  dis 
agreeable  place  to  reside  at,  for  an  American — in 
the  present  situation  of  affairs — if  convenient  ac 
commodations  could  be  procured.  The  intercourse 
from  hence,  to  the  different  States,  has  been  very 
frequent — the  agent  for  transacting  the  commer- 


[  258  j 

cial  business  of  Congress,  resides  here,  which  oc 
casions*  it  to  be  the  most  likely  Port  for  obtaining' 
the  best  intelligence. 

I  think  there  can  be  no  doubt,  if  you  are  deter 
mined  to  take  your  family  to  America,  but  that, 
during  the  course  of  a  few  months  you  may  de 
pend  upon  finding  a  suitable  conveyance,  from 
hence  to  some  part  or  other  of  the  Continent.  But 
before  you  resolve  on  that  movement — permit  me 
to  submit  a  matter  for  your  consideration,  which  I 
think  deserves  attention. 

In  my  opinion,  a  final  separation  between  Ame 
rica  and  England  is  now  inevitable — that  being 
admitted — I  think  there  must  in  consequence  be  a 
very  intimate — and  consequential  connection  be 
tween  this  Kingdom  and  the  United  States— of  a 
political,  as  well  as  commercial  nature — which  for 
the  collective — and  general  weal — will  be  under  the 
care,  and  management  of  Congress — but  each  par 
ticular  State — will  undoubtedly  be  left  to  a  superin 
tendence  of  its  own  distinct  Interest.  The  present 
great,  and  increasing  importance  of  Carolina,  is 
such — that  I  apprehend,  it  will  be  found  essential  to 
the  interest  and  prosperity  of  the  State — to  have  a 
Commissioner — Ambassador— Agent,  or  what  style 
and  title  they  please— to  be  a  constant  resident  at 
Paris— invested  with  full  and  ample  powers,  not 


t  259  ] 

only  for  the  superintendence  of  its  public  concerns 
in  Europe — but  to  hear  complaints — and  obtain  re 
dress  of  any  .grievances — that  the  subjects  of  the 
State  may  have  cause,  or  occasion  to  complain  of— 
whilst  they  are  on  this  side  the  Atlantic,  in  trans 
acting  their  commercial  business.  As  I  am  confi 
dent  there  is  no  person  more  capable  than  your 
self  to  discharge  so  important  an  office — I  there 
fore  sincerely  wish  you  will  let  my  idea  have  your 

serious  deliberation. 

******** 

My  present  intention  is  to  stay  here  till  I  receive 
an  answer  to  a  letter  which  I  have  written  to  his 
Excellency  the  President  of  Carolina.  Having 
the  needful  introductions  to  merchants  at  Bor 
deaux— Havre— St.  Malo's.  and  this  place— I  pleased 
myself  that  I  should  find  but  little  difficulty  in  pro 
curing  French  Ships,  to  proceed  to  Charlestown — 
to  enable  our  friends  to  export  their — and  our  pro 
duce  ;  as  my  finances  would  not  permit  me  to  pur 
chase  the  articles  I  should  prefer— my  plan  was  to 
ballast  them  with  salt,  which  would  pay  a  good 
freight,  and  be  acceptable.  Having  no  doubt  from 
the  information  I  received,  that  there  would  be 
any  demur  respecting  Insurance — at  a  premium  of 
twenty-five  per  cent,  I  proceeded  to  the  execution 
of  my  scheme — in  which  I  experienced  a  multipli- 


[  260  ] 

city  of  unexpected  objections — insomuch  that  I 
almost  gave  up  its  prosecution  ;  but  my  anxiety  to 
get  some  vessels  out,  stimulated  me  to  continue  it 
— and  at  last  I  reasoned  with  and  persuaded  some 
Owners  of  Bordeaux— St.  Malo's — Havre — and  this 
Port,  to  accept  my  proposal  for  about  ten  sail — 
upon  condition  they  could  effect  an  Insurance, 
which  I  am  extremely  sorry  to  acquaint  you  can 
not  be  made — although  thirty  per  cent  has  been 
offered  at  the  several  ports  mentioned — and  at  Am 
sterdam — Rotterdam — and  Hamburgh.  If  I  could 
have  succeeded,  it  was  my  intention  to  have  pre 
sented  one  of  the  vessels  for  your  acceptance. 

What  steps  I  shall  now  take,  is  very  uncertain. 
Indeed,  at  present,  I  see  very  little  prospect  of 
doing  any  thing.  Be  assured,  I  shall  with  great 
pleasure  co-operate  with  you  in  executing  any 
scheme — that  may  be  thought  beneficial  to  the 
State — or  to  ourselves. 

It  concerns  me,  to  observe  that  the  French  mer 
chants — appear  to  want  a  disposition  for  carrying 
on  with  a  requisite  spirit — an  intercourse  with 
America. 

It  is  true  that  several  sail  of  Capital — well-armed 
Ships — have  lately  been  fitted  out,  at  this — and 
some  other  ports — but  they  are  upon  account,  and 
risque  of  Parisians. 


[  261  ] 

Two  that  are  gone  from  hence,  I  am  pretty 
certain  are  destined  for  Charlestown ;  they  have 
valuable  Cargoes. 

No  vessel — French  property — is  permitted  to 
clear  out  for  the  United  States — those  that  go,  are, 
therefore,  obliged  to  take  their  departure  for  some 
French  settlement — and  from  whence  the  Admiral 
ty  requires,  that  the  Captain  should  bring  a  vouch 
er  of  his  having  been  there — which  regulation  com 
pels  the  ship,  either  outward  or  homeward  bound, 
to  proceed  there,  which  is — or  I  should  have  said, 
will  be  accepted  as  sufficient — although  the  Cargo 
is  apparently  the  production  of  the  States.  I  say 
will  be,  as  no  Vessel,  French  property — has  yet  ar 
rived  at  any  Port  in  this  Kingdom — from  any  one 
of  them. 

I  am  sorry  to  see  that  the  Manufactures  of 
France — are  so  very  inferior,  and  dissimilar  to  those 
the  Carolinians  have  been  accustomed  to  receive; — 
and  dearer  in  proportion  of  fifteen  to  twenty  per 
cent.  Another  disagreeable  circumstance  is — that 
they  keep  no  Stocks  on  hand — if,  therefore,  a 
quantity  of  goods  are  wanted — a  long  previous 
notice  must  be  given— and  the  cash  is  required  on 
delivery — and  sometimes  before.  *  *  * 
The  state  of  affairs  between  France,  and  Eng 
land,  is  certainly  drawing  to  a  crisis.  It  is  my 


[  262  ] 

opinion  that  both  Courts,  will,  as  long  as  possible, 
avoid  a  formal  declaration  of  War — and  which 
leads  me  to  expect  that  hostilities  will  precede  it— 
and  perhaps  of  a  consequential  nature. 

The  British  Ministry  have  made  such  publick 
sacrifices  of  national  honor— that  it  is  impossible  to 
say,  what  provocations — insults — or  indignities, 
will  rouse  a  spirit  of  resentment. 

They  are  certainly  very  busy  at  Brest— yester 
day  a  considerable  number  of  Artisans — and  Me- 
chanicks  went  from  hence.  The  people  employ 
ed  in  curing  meat — have  been  some  time  idle — but 
within  these  few  days,  they  have  been  again  set 
to  work — with  a  very  considerable  additional  num 
ber  of  hands.  Ten  thousand  men  are  now  on 
their  march  to  be  cantonned  in  the  neighborhood 
of  that  port — and  where  there  is  a  Fleet  of  eigh 
teen  sail  of  the  Line — and  six  Frigates — kept  ready 
to  proceed  to  sea — at  an  hour's  notice.  The  expecta 
tion  of  War — is  now  the  general  topick — and  it  is 
spoken  of  by  the  French  Merchants  with  pleasure 
— from  a  confidence  that  it  will  certainly  establish 
the  independence  of  America — and  bring  to  this 
Kingdom — a  very  considerable  share  of  the  bene 
ficial  Commerce  of  the  United  States. 

The  information  you  received   respecting   La 


[  263  ] 

Licorne,  and  the  Pomona,  is  totally  devoid  of 
foundation. 

A  ship  arrived  here  the  day  before  yesterday — 
from  the  Cape — which  brings  letters,  that  mention, 
there  were  forty  sail  of  American  Vessels  then 
there — that  Rice  was  1 5s.  per  cwt. — Flour,  and 
all  other  American  produce,  equally  cheap.  They 
don't  quote  the  price  of  Indigo — as  all  that  comes 
they  intermix  with  with  their  own  ;  but  from  Mar 
tinique,  the  price  is  said  to  be — for  good  Copper 
—from  £4  10  to  £5  10. 

Upon  the  report  of  some  Vessels  being  arrived 
from  America — and  one  of  them  positively  from 
Philadelphia— I  have  kept  this  letter  open — to  the 
last  moment — in  hopes  that  the  Captains  would  be 
up,  to  have  acquainted  you  if  there  was  any  thing 
new — but  as  none  of  them  appear,  I  cannot  tres 
pass  any  longer — and,  therefore,  with  Mrs.  L.'s, 
and  my  own  sincere  assurances  of  regard  for  Mrs. 
Izard,  and  yourself,  and  family,  I  subscribe  myself, 

Dear  sir. 

I  presented  the  compliments  you  desired  \o  Mr. 
and  Mrs.  Channing — who  are  well — and  have 
charged  me  to  return  theirs  to  Mrs.  I,,  and  your 
self. 


[  264  ] 

From  the  same  to  the  same. 

NANTES,  March  22,  1777. 

DEAR  SIR  : — 

V 

The  Vessels  which  I  mentioned  in 

my  last,  prove  to  be  two  ships  from  Philadelphia — 
the  last  of  them  left  Reedy  Island,  the  12th  ult.— 
they  are  loaded  with  Tobacco — another  sailed 
with  them — and  seven  more  Vessels  were  loading 
with  that  commodity — bound  to  this  Kingdom. 

The  Delaware  has  been  blocked  up  by  three 
British  Ships  of  War — for  six  weeks — they  quitted 
the  station  for  Chesepeake  Bay — which  released 
between  forty  and  fifty  Vessels — most  of  them 
small — and  except  the  three  mentioned — all  bound 
to  the  West  Indies.  They  were  convoyed  for 
three  days  off  the  Coast,  by  the  Randolph  Frigate, 
Captain  Biddle — one  of  the  new  ships  built  at  Phi 
ladelphia — she  mounts  thirty-six  guns,  and  carries 
two  hundred  and  eighty  men. 

When  she  left  the  Fleet — she  stood  farther 
Northward— supposed  for  the  Coast  of  New  Eng 
land — to  pay  her  first  compliment,  to  the  Milford  ; 


[265  ] 

she  is  completely  equipped,  and  goes  very  fast. — 
The  other  Frigates  (the  last  of  which  is  called  the 
Effingham)  are  all  ready  for  sea — but  their  crews 
are  with  the  Army — under  their  officers — as  a 
Corps  of  Artilery. 

The  last  intelligence  from  General  Washington, 
was — that  he  had  under  his  command,  near  thirty 
thousand  men— and  was  advanced  so  close  to 
Brunswick — that  the  Royalists  dare  not  venture  out, 
to  cut  a  stick  of  wood — that  Cornwallis  command 
ed  them,  with  about  twelve  thousand  men.  The 
Rariton  continuing  open,  he  had  received  great 
assistance  from  the  ships  and  which  had  enabled 
him  to  fortify  the  town — and  all  the  environs — in  so 
strong  a  manner,  that  General  Washington,  had 
not  thought  it  prudent  to  attack  him.  This  favor 
able  circumstance  kept  open  a  communication  with 
New- York,  and  permitted  his  retreat — whenever 
he  pleased — and  for  which  purpose  the  necessary 
preparations  were  made. 

The  desertions  from  the  British — as  well  as  the 
Hessians—were  considerable  and  daily — and  I 
cannot  omit  to  inform  you,  that  the  masters  of  one 
of  the  ships  informed  me — he  saw  at  Philadelphia — 
upwards  of  fifty  Highlanders — who  had  walked  off 
from  Cornwallis  without  leave.  No  deserters  are 
enlisted  in  the  Continental  Army — but  they  meet 
24 


[  266  ] 

with  great  encouragement  in  every  other  employ 
ment,  that  they  are  fit  for.  The  report  of  a  Brig 
ade  of  Hessians — having  laid  down  their  arms — is 
not  true. 

General  Washington's  Army  was  principally 
composed  of  Militia,  which  were  discharged — as 
the  Regiments  upon  the  new  Establishment  arriv 
ed.  They  are  enlisted  for  the  War,  and  filled  ex 
ceeding  fast. 

Having  seen  a  list  of  prizes  published  in  the 
English  papers — taken  by  the  Milford — I  have 
selected  an  account  of  Vessels  taken  by  the  Alfred 
Frigate,  belonging  to  the  States  during  one  month. 

November  2d,  1776.— Sailed  from  Rhode  Island 
with  one  hundred  and  forty  Officers  and  Men. 

12th. — Took  a  Brig  with  a  valuable  Cargo  from 
Liverpool  to  Halifax. 

13th. — The  ship  Mellish,  a  transport,  bound 
to  Quebec— with  Clothing  for  the  Army— she  had 
twelve  thousand  complete  suits. 

16th. — A  Scow  with  Fish  from  Guepey,  to 
Barbadoes. 

22d. — Chased  a  transport  ashore  off  Canso — 
loaded  with  provisions — as  she  could  not  be  got 
off,  sent  the  boats,  and  burnt  her. 

23d.— Three  transports  under  convoy  of  the 
Flora  frigate. 


[267] 

26th. — A  ship  from  Liverpool  to  Halifax — 
mounted  with  ten  carriage  guns. 

December  16th. — Arrived  safe  with  the  Mellish 
in  Nantasket  Road,  with  one  hundred  and  forty 
prisoners  on  board,  among  whom  are  the  Attor 
ney  General  of  Canada,  his  lady,  and  family — 
with  several  Officers  and  soldiers. 

The  papers  which  I  have  seen,  contain  nothing 
material  except  the  following  proclamation  : 

By  his  Excellency,  G.  Washington,  General  and 
Commander-in- Chief  of  all  the  forces  of  the 
United  States. 

PROCLAMATION. 

"  Whereas,  several  persons — Inhabitants  of  the 
"  United  States  of  America — inflamed  by  enemical 
"  motives — intimidated  by  the  threats  of  the  Ene- 
«  mv — or  deluded  by  a  proclamation,  issued  30th 
"  last  November,  by  Lord  and  General  Howe — 
"  styled  the  King's  Commissioners  for  granting 
"  pardons,  &c.  &c.,  (now  at  open  War,  and  invad- 
"  ing  these  States,)  have  been  so  lost  to  the  inter- 
"  est,  and  welfare  of  the  country — as  to  repair  to 
"  the  Enemy — sign  a  declaration  of  fidelity — and, 
"  in  some  instances,  have  been  compelled  to  take 


[  268  ] 

"  oaths  of  allegiance— and  to  engage  not  to  take 
"  up  arms — or  encourage  others  so  to  do — against 
"  the  King  of  Great  Britain  ;  and  whereas,  it  has 
"  become   necessary   to   distinguish   between  the 
"  friends  of  America — and  those  of  Great  Britain — 
"  Inhabitants  of  these  States — and  that  every  man 
"  who  receives  a  protection  from,  and  is  subject  of 
"  any  State  (not  being  conscientiously  scrupulous 
"  against  bearing  Arms,)  should  stand  ready  to  de- 
"  fend  the  same  against  every  hostile  invasion.     I 
"  do,  therefore,  in  behalf  of  the  United  States,  by 
"  virtue  of  the  powers  committed  to  me  by  Con- 
"gress — hereby    strictly   command,   and    require 
"every  person  having  subscribed  such  declara- 
"  tion — taken   such   oaths — and   accepted   protec- 
"  tions,  and  certificates,  from  Lord,  and  General 
"Howe — or  any  person   acting   under   their  au- 
"  thority — forthwith  to  repair  to  head-quarters,  or 
"  to  quarters  of  the  nearest  General  Officer  of  the 
"  Continental  Army,  or  Militia  (until  farther  provi- 
"  sion  can  be  made  by  civil  authority,)  and  there 
"  deliver    up    such    protections — certificates — and 
"  passports — and   take  the  Oaths  of  Allegiance  to 
"  the    United  States   of  America.      Nevertheless, 
"  hereby  granting  full  liberty  to  all  such  as  prefer 
"  the  interest — and  protection  of  Great  Britain — to 
"  the  freedom,  and  happiness  of  their  Country — 


[  269  ] 

"  forthwith  to  withdraw  themselves,  and  families, 
"within  the  Enemy's  Lines.  And  I  do  hereby 
"declare,  that  all— and  every  person— who  may 
"  neglect,  or  refuse  to  comply  with  this  order  within 
"  thirty  days  from  the  date  hereof— will  be  deemed 
"adherents  to  the  King  of  Great  Britain— and 
"treated  as  common  enemies  to  the  American 
"  States." 

Given  at  Head  Quarters, 

Morristown,  Jan.  25,  1777. 
GEORGE  WASHINGTON. 

"  By  his  Excellency's  Command. 

ROBERT  HARRISON,  Secretary. 

Philadelphia. 

"  In  a  folio  general  order  book  belonging  to  Col. 
"  Rohl's  Battalion,  taken  at  Trenton,  and  now  in 
"  possession  of  the  Council  of  Safety,  for  this  State, 
"  — the  following  barbarous  order  is  frequently  re- 
"  peated  :  "  His  Excellency  the  Commander  in 
"  Chief— orders  that  all  inhabitants  that  shall  be 
"  found  with  arms,  not  having  an  Officer  with 
"  them — shall  be  immediately  taken  and  hung  up." 
24* 


[270  ] 

From  the  same  to  the  same. 

NANTES,  March  27,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

The  letters  from  London  by  the 
last  post  are  uniformly  confident  in  advising  that 
the  prospect  of  a  War  between  France  and  Eng 
land  has  vanished. 

I  am  set  down  to  reply  to  your  queries,  present 
ed  to  me  under  date  of  the  14th  instant. 

There  are  vessels  which  go  from  Havre  to  St. 
Domingo — but  not  so  frequent  as  from  this  Port — 
the  accommodations  on  board  of  them,  I  am  told, 
are  tolerable — as  you  know  what  the  French  call 
such — it  is  needless  for  me  to  comment  thereon. 
The  usual  terms  for  passage  are  three  hundred 
and  fifty — to  four  hundred  livres,  for  grown  per 
sons — to  be  found  in  every  thing — and  one  hundred 
and  fifty  for  servants.  You  may  have  the  whole 
cabin — it  not  having  been  customary  so  to  do.  I 
cannot  with  any  certainty  acquaint  you  what  sum 
would  be  required.  A  merchant  whom  I  consult- 


[  271  ] 

ed  upon  this  point — told  me  that  he  thought  it  could 
not  be  less  than  one  hundred  Louis  d'ors. 

There  are  no  French  ships  permitted  to  go  to 
St.  Eustacia  direct.  St.  Domingo  is  certainly  the 
best  Island  to  land  at ;  a  captain  who  is  just  ar 
rived  from  thence — reports  that  a  great  number  of 
Vessels  resorted  there  from  the  different  States — 
but  they  were  in  general  very  small.  I  have  no 
doubt  but  among  the  number  there  are  some  Ber- 
mudian  Sloops.  I  know  that  there  is  a  company 
at  Charlestown,  which  have  four  or  five  of  them, 
that  go  to,  and  from,  the  French  West  India 
Islands — St.  Eustacia — St.  Croix,  &c. 

I  am  at  a  great  loss  what  method  to  think  the 
best  for  returning  to  America,  with  a  family — 
there  is  not  one  that  I  can  devise  to  which  there 
are  not  almost  insuperable  objections ;  for  a  single 
man  the  mode  of  conveyance  is  not  very  material 
— but  when  I  reflect  upon  the  complicated,  disa 
greeable  circumstances,  which  more  than  proba 
bly  would  attend  a  family — the  proposed  embarka 
tion  of  one  distresses  me  exceedingly ;  for  that 
reason,  I  wish  what  I  submitted  to  your  considera 
tion  some  posts  since — may  be  thought  deserving 
of  your  attention — but  if  it  should  not — I  would  not 
recommend  your  leaving  Europe  till  the  Fall—by 
which  time  you  may  have  answers  to  your  letters, 


[  272  ] 

written  from  this  Kingdom— besides  it  is  certainly 
the  best  season  for  departure  upon  every  account. 

It  is  my  earnest  and  sincere  desire  to  return  to 
Carolina  ;  but  previous  thereto — I  wish  to  receive 
from  thence  some  remittances— that  I  maybe  able 
to  do  it  in  a  more  acceptable  manner.  *  *  * 

This  I  have  submitted  to  his  Excellency — and 
my  other  friends  in  power— and  also  to  my  attor- 
nies,  who  I  hope,  and  expect  (when  they  know 
that  I  am  certainly  in  this  Kingdom)  will  devise 
some  mode  of  remitting  me — and  which  I  think 
during  the  course  of  the  summer  they  may  have 
opportunities  of  doing — either  direct  or  by  the  way 
of  the  French  West  Indies. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  Lord  George  Germaine,  one  of 
his  Majesty's  principal  Secretaries  of  State. 

RICHMOND  GREEN,  March  27,  1777. 
MY  LORD  : — 

I  am  a  native  of  South  Carolina— 
of  considerable  property  in   that  Province — and 


[  273  ] 

came  to  reside  in  England,  with  my  wife,  and 
family,  several  years  ago. 

The  unfortunate  commotions  in  North  America — 
render  my  presence  absolutely  necessary — to  pre 
serve  the  wreck  of  my  Estate.  The  laws  that 
have  been  passed  for  restraining  the  communica 
tion  between  this  country — and  the  Colonies—ren 
der  it  difficult  for  me  to  get  there.  I  am  desirous 
of  carrying  my  wife  and  children  with  me — because 
I  have  now  no  means  of  maintaining  them  here. 

I  wish  to  go  in  the  most  public  manner.  The 
Packet  to  St.  Augustine,  is  the  most  natural  chan 
nel.  I  therefore  apply  to  your  Lordship,  and  re 
quest  you  will  obtain  his  Majesty's  License  for 
that  purpose — with  orders  to  Governor  Tonga — or 
the  Commander-in-Chief  of  the  Province  of  East 
Florida — to  permit  me  and  my  family,  to  pass 
peaceably  to  South  Carolina.  Or  in  case  this  is 
thought  improper — that  I  may  be  allowed  to  hire  a 
Vessel — upon  the  assurance  of  a  License  for  her — 
under  every  restriction,  that  I  shall  carry  nothing, 
except  necessaries  for  my  family. 

I  am  extremely  anxious  to  be  satisfied  on  the 
points — which  I  have  had  the  honor  of  submitting 
to  your  Lordship — and  therefore  request  the  favor 
of  an  answer,  as  soon  as  possible. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  &c. 


[274] 
Lord  George  Germaine  to  Mr.  hard. 

Lord  George  Germaine  presents  his  compli 
ments  to  Mr.  Izard,  and  is  sorry  to  inform  him, 
that  he  cannot  move  His  Majesty  for  the  License 
Mr.  Izard  desires. 

Whitehall,  March  28,  1777. 


From  George  Livins,  Esq.  to  Mr.  Izard. 

CALCUTTA,  April  3,  1777. 
DEAR  IZARD  : — 

I  was  much  disappointed  in  not 
receiving  a  line  from  you,  these  two  seasons  past. 
It  has  given  me  much  concern,  on  every  account. 

I  hope  the  ships  of  this  season— which  we  expect 
after  July  next — will  give  me  some  satisfactory  in 
formation  of  your  health  and  welfare. 

I  am  impatient  to  hear  news  from  America — 
and  I  trust  things  will  yet  go  well.  I  wished 
earnestly  to  hear  from  you — especially  as  I  was 


[  275] 

informed  you  had  in  1 775,  settled  yourself  in  the 
Country. 

It  is  hard  I  should  never  have  received  a  line 
from  you.  I  took  the  liberty  of  remitting  bills,  to 
an  inconsiderable  amount  (£200  sterling.  It  would 
have  been  doing  me  a  favour  to  keep  the  money, 
in  your  hands,  lest  other  expectations  should  fail 
with  me.  I  have  now  again  troubled  you  with  a 
bill  for  £100,  which  I  beg  you  will  do  me  the  fa 
vour  to  dispose  of,  as  you  may  think  proper.  It 
may  be  of  some  use — during  the  present  troubles 
— and  if  it  should  be  of  any— the  least  use — I  pray 
you  will  dispose  of  it. 

My  prospects  in  India  are  very  good ;  and  I 
trust  I  shall  see  you,  with  a  small  but  independent 
fortune — in  the  course  of  a  few  years.  The  trade  of 
India  has  been  these  two  years  past,  much  on  the 
decline — and  very  unsuccessful  to  most  con 
cerned  in  it — but  I  have  had  good  fortune — beyond 
all  expectation. 

I  had  written  thus  far  yesterday ;  I  hope  to 
write  to  you  from  Madras — having  now  but  just 
time  to  close  this. 

Remember  me,  in  the  best  manner  to  Mrs.  Izard, 
Mrs.  Blake,  and  all  my  friends. 

I  remain,  dear  Izard, 
Your  affectionate  friend  and  humble  servant, 

GEORGE  LIVINS. 


[  276  ] 

From  John  Lloyd,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

NANTES,  April  26,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

Your  favor  of  the  4th  instant  came 
to  hand  in  due  course.  We  have  nothing  new 
from  America ;  the  wind  has  been  long  unfavora 
ble  for  ships  to  come  in — but  as  it  is  now  westerly — 
I  please  myself  with  hopes  that  we  shall  soon  re 
ceive  some  satisfactory  intelligence. 

The  principal  design  of  this  letter  is  to  acquaint 
you — the  Merchants  have  lately  such  confident 
assurances  from  Paris,  that  there  will  be  no  war 
with  England — and  as  several  circumstances  con 
cur  to  strengthen  the  belief — they  are  in  conse 
quence  generally  disposed  to  become  more  or  less 
adventurers  to  America— and  they  manifest  a  pre 
ferable  disposition  for  speculation  to  Carolina — in 
somuch,  that  there  are  now  fitting  out  upwards  of 
twelve  vessels  at  this  port,  for  Charlestown ;  and  I 
think  it  is  probable  the  number  will  continue  to  in 
crease — whilst  the  underwriters  will  take  the  risks  ; 
the  present  premium  is  35  per  cent,  out  and  home, 


L  277  ] 

and  the  freights  220  to  225  livres  per  ton — to  be 
paid  upon  the  return  cargo. 

I  have  not  engaged  any,  upon  my  own  account — 
and  am  doubtful  if  I  shall— till  towards  the  fall— as 
I  think  the  present  season  is  too  far  advanced. 
None  of  those  taken  up  will  be  ready  to  sail,  at 
soonest — before  the  latter  end  of  next  month — and 
as  they  must  go  from  hence  to  St.  Domingo — Mar 
tinique — or  some  other  French  port,  before  they 
proceed  to  Charlestown — I  do  not  expect  they  will 
arrive  there  before  September — by  which  time  I 
have  not  a  doubt,  but  that  all  the  Indigo,  will  be 
shipped  off.  In  that  case,  my  plan  would  be  sub 
verted — as  I  propose  to  ease  the  Charter,  to  take 
Indigo  on  freight  between  decks,  being  of  opinion* 
that  by  the  period  when  the  vessels  may  be  expected 
to  return — that  Rice  will  be  at  a  price  that  will  not 
afford  the  present  freights  and  insurance.  I  have 
no  doubt,  but  that  a  considerable  quantity  will  find 
its  way  to  Europe — the  crop  of  St.  Domingo  hav 
ing  failed  more  than  one  half — a  great  number  of 
ships  must  of  course  be  deprived  of  their  cargoes. 
To  remedy  this  unfortunate  circumstance — I  am 
informed  that  orders  are  transmitted  out,  by  seve 
ral  owners,  for  their  vessels  to  get  a  little  sugar, 
and  clear  out  for  France — but  to  proceed  to 
Charlestown — which  scheme  can  be  effected  with 
25 


[278  ] 

little  or  no  risk.  I  have  been  consulted  upon  the 
subject — and  have  given  the  plan  all  possible  recom 
mendation.  There  are  three  going  out  from  here 
as  seekers — and  I  think  it  probable  more  will  follow 
the  example — whilst  Insurance  can  be  made,  and 
the  present  political  aspect  continues. 

They  all  take  a  considerable  quantity  of  salt — 
and  more  or  less  goods — some  of  them  will  be 
near  loaded  with  necessary  articles — so  that  I  think 
there  is  a  prospect  of  the  market  being  tolerably 
well  supplied — and  of  the  Planters  getting  good 
prices  for  their  produce. 

I  omitted  to  tell  you  in  my  last,  that  when  the 
schooner  which  I  therein  mentioned  to  be  ar 
rived  here  from  Charlestown,  left  it — the  Captain 
says  old  Rice  was  selling  from  35s  to  375  6d,  and 
new  from  42s  Gd  to  455,  and  that  the  best  copper 
Indigo,  was  in  demand  at  30.9  to  355,  at  which  I 
am  not  surprised — as  most  of  the  small  foreign  ves 
sels  that  arrive  there,  are  obliged  to  invest  the 
proceeds  of  their  cargoes,  in  that  article — which, 
by  advices  from  Statia,  may  be  bought  there  for 
20  per  cent  less  than  it  can  in  Carolina — owing  to 
the  great  quantities  that  have  been  carried  to  that 
market. 

If  you  are  disposed  to  speculate  in  Charters — I 
will  endeavor  to  get  executed  any  order  that  you 


L  279  ] 

may  give  me — with  the  strictest  attention  to  your 
interest.  I  have  no  doubt  but  you  will  see  the  im 
propriety  of  mentioning  in  England — the  mercantile 
intelligence,  which  I  have  communicated. 

Your  particular  friend,  Mr.  Lee,  is  returned  to 
Paris  from  Madrid — where  he  has  accomplished  his 
business,  to  his  satisfaction — and  by  this  day  has 
departed  upon  another  tour  to  Berlin. 

Mr.  and  Mrs.  Blake,  with  the  children  arrived 
here  well  the  19th.  Your  friends  here  join  me  in 
respectful  assurances  to  Mrs.  I.  and  yourself. 

Adieu. 

Believe  me  to  be, 

Most  sincerely,  yours, 

JOHN  LLOYD, 


From  Mr.  hard  to  Edward  Rutledge,  Esq. 

LONDON,  May  8,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  :•-- 

It  is  long  since  I  have  had  the  plea- 
sure  of  receiving  a  letter  from  you.  That  brought 
by  Mr.  Story,  through  France,  was  the  last. 


[  280  ] 

I  have  written  to  you  by  several  opportunities, 
and  hope  some  of  my  letters  may  have  got  to  your 
hands.  A  person  who  goes  by  way  of  Augustine, 
has  promised,  if  possible,  to  deliver  this  to  you.  As 
it  is  very  doubtful  whether  it  will  get  safe,  or  no — it 
will  be  improper,  to  enter  so  fully  into  the  state  of 
affairs,  as  I  could  wish. 

The  conduct  of  America  is  approved  of— and  ad 
mired  by  all  the  world— except  those  whose  folly 
and  villainy  have  made  that  conduct  necessary.  I 
most  sincerely  congratulate  you,  on  the  wise,  and 
spirited  behaviour  of  our  Countrymen  in  Carolina  ; 
and  I  have  not  the  least  doubt,  but  their  cause 
will  be  crowned  with  success — as  it  is  the  cause  of 
virtue — and  the  noblest  one  that  ever  was  con 
tended  for  by  a  free  people. 

I  have  long  wished  to  be  with  you,  but  it  has 
been  absolutely  out  of  my  power.  A  letter  I 
wrote  to  my  late  worthy  friend  T.  L.,  (which  I  de 
sired  hfm  to  communicate  to  you)  required  an  an 
swer. 

Then  came  the  Act  to  prohibit  all  intercourse 
with  America.  After  that,  I  endeavored  to  pro 
cure  from  the  Secretary  of  State,  an  order  to  the 
Governor  of  Augustine — to  let  me  and  my  family 
pass  from  his  Province,  to  Charlestown.  My  an 
swer  was  a  peremptory  refusal.  In  short,  every 


[281  ] 

step  in  my  power  has  been  taken  without  effect.  I 
have,  however,  the  satisfaction  of  thinking,  that 
my  time  has  not  been  uselessly  employed  here.  If 
my  Countrymen  think  that  I  can  be  of  any  service 
to  them  in  Europe — it  will  make  me  very  happy. 

I  shall  go  with  my  family  to  France  during  the 
course  of  next  month — where  I  shall  be  glad  that  you 
will  write  to  me — and  I  desire  that  you  will  send 
me  as  much  of  my  crop — ^both  Rice  and  Indigo — 
as  you  can.  Let  it  be  consigned  to  any  Merchant 
in  any  part  of  France — that  the  Government  of 
Carolina  make  their  consignments  to.  You  will 
be  so  good  as  to  make  Insurance  in  Carolina  on 
whatever  you  send  me. 

I  rely  on  these  shipments  for  the  support  of  my 
family.  I  have  not  for  a  considerable  time,  re 
ceived  any  remittances — which  has  obliged  me  to 
get  into  debt.  I  trust  to  your  friendly  exertions — 
and  I  think  that,  circumstanced  as  you  know  me  to 
be — I  need  say  no  more  to  you  on  the  subject. 

As  I  hear  that  Mr.  Laurens  is  appointed  one  of 
the  Delegates — it  is  probable  that  he  will  not  be  in 
Charlestown,  when  this  arrives.  I  shall  therefore 
defer  writing  to  him  till  I  get  to  France.  If  I  have 
been  misinformed — and  he  is  still  in  Carolina — pray 
make  my  compliments  to  him. 

I  shall  be  greatly  disappointed,  if  Sir  W.  Howe 
25* 


[  282  ] 

does  not  find  in  the  middle  Colonies — more  employ 
ment  than  he  can  engage  in,  to  his  satisfaction. 

Should  he  succeed  in  his  wishes,  this  summer — 
which  I  think  impossible — you  will  have  another 
visit  next  winter. 

This  you  must  long  have  expected — and  I  am 

very  happy  to  think— -you  will  of  course  be  prepared. 

******** 

Whenever  I  have  a  good  opportunity,  and  any 
thing  worth  communicating — I  shall  write  to  you. 
I  beg  our  compliments  to  your  brother's  family. 
Adieu. 

I  am  with  great  regard,  dear  sir, 

Your  friend,  and  humble  servant. 

P.  S.  So  far  my  letter  of  the  8th  May.  I  have 
since  heard  that  a  considerable  number  of  French 
Vessels  have  got  safe  into  Charlestown — which  has 
raised  the  price  both  of  Rice,  and  Indigo.  This 
may  make  it  possible  to  procure  Bills  of  Exchange 
on  France.  If  so — I  should  prefer  them  to  pro 
duce — on  account  of  the  risk — though  a  considerable 
premium  should  be  paid  for  them.  However,  if 
Bills  of  Exchange  are  not  to  be  had — send  me 
Rice,  and  Indigo — for  I  stand  in  absolute  need  of 
remittances  of  some  sort  or  other. 

Lord  Chatham  is  so  far  recovered  as  to  come 


[  283  ] 

to  the  House  of  Lords.  I  heard  him  make  a  very 
good  speech  last  week.  He  moved  to  address  the 
King,  to  redress  the  accumulated  grievances  of 
America — and  that  this  measure  should  be  sent 
over  to  America — as  the  Herald  to  announce  the 
disposition  of  this  Country  to  Peace.  An  excel 
lent  debate  ensued — in  which  Lord  Shelburne,  and 
Lord  Camden,  showed  the  greatest  abilities.  The 
Book  of  Numbers  overthrew  every  sensible  argu 
ment. 

It  was  ridiculous  enough,  at  this  stage  of  the 
business — when  they  do  not  seem  to  have  the 
smallest  chance  of  success — to  hear  Lord  Gower 
talk  of  the  necessity  of  carrying  on  the  war — and 
convincing  the  Americans,  that  they  were  their 
Masters — those  were  his  words. 


[284  ] 

From  Mr.  hard  to  George  Livins,  Esq. 

LONDON,  May  12,  1777. 
DEAR  LIVINS  : — 

Mr.  Dempster  has  just  informed 
me  that  there  is  an  express,  going  overland  to  In 
dia  ;  and  that  he  will  enclose  a  letter  to  a  friend 
of  his  at  Madras — which  will  be  forwarded  to  Cal 
cutta. 

I  embrace,  therefore,  that  opportunity  of  ac 
knowledging  the  receipt  of  your  letter  of  the  15th 
September — which  enclosed  a  bill  of  Exchange 
for  £200  for  me,  and  another  of  £100  for  Mr. 
Blake.  I  am  much  obliged  to  you  for  this  act  of 
friendship — and  it  gives  me  particular  pleasure  to 
find,  that  my  attachment  and  affection  have  been 
so  judiciously  placed.  Mr.  Blake  desires  me  to 
give  you  his  compliments  and  thanks.  He  has  no 
immediate  occasion  for  the  money — and  therefore 
desires  me  to  make  use  of  it.  I  have  sent  the 
Bills  for  acceptance — and  shall  keep  the  money,  at 
my  Bankers — and  use  it  if  I  have  occasion  for  it — 
which  may  be  the  case — for  I  see  no  prospect  of 


[  285  ] 

an  end  to  this  unhappy  war — which  I  have  some 
reason  to  think,  will  extend  itself  to  all  parts  of 
the  world.  Possibly,  you  may,  at  Calcutta,  have 
an  opportunity  of  knowing  the  designs  of  the 
Court  of  France — before  they  are  openly  avowed 
at  St.  James's.  England,  the  former  pride  and 
terror  of  the  World — rather  than  abandon  her  un 
just  attempts  against  her  own  offspring — is  com 
pelled  meanly  to  put  up  with  such  insults  from 
her  ancient  rival — and  natural  Enemy — as  would 
have  roused  her  at  any  other  period  .of  her  his 
tory. 

Three  ambassadors,  from  the  Congress,  reside 
publickly  at  Paris.  Scarce  a  week  passes,  but 
there  are  some  English  prizes  carried  into  some 
of  the  ports  of  France,  and  sold.  Lord  Stor- 
mont  remonstrates — the  French  Minister  gives 
assurances  of  the  pacific  intentions  of  his  master — 
but  no  restitution  is  made — nor  any  sort  of  satis 
faction  given.  This  is  the  state  of  affairs  in 
France ; — in  the  meantime,  every  sort  of  assis 
tance  that  can  be  devised  is  given  to  America, 
by  France.  Cannon — Ammunition — Tents — Arms 
of  all  sorts — and  all  kinds  of  Military  stores — are 
slipt  into  the  Continent  from  the  French  Islands. 

This  is  publickly  known  to  be  the  case.  Lord 
Stormont  remonstrates  again — the  French  Minis- 


[  286  ] 

ter  promises  to  enquire  into  the  matter — but  still 
no  satisfaction  is  ever  obtained.  An  American 
Privateer,  last  week,  took  two  Packets  going  from 
Harwich  to  Helvoet  Sluys.  One  of  them  had  a 
considerable  sum  of  money  on  board — and  dia 
monds  belonging  to  the  Jews. 

Every  nation  in  Europe,  stands  astonished  at 
the  extreme  folly  of  this  country — while  the  Min 
istry,  wrapped  up  in  their  own  importance — are 
marching  with  a  steady  and  certain  step — to  the 
destruction  of  that  Union — which  formed  the 
strength  of  the  British  Empire. 

The  Packet  from  New- York,  is  just  arrived. 
General  Howe  was  making  every  preparation  for 
opening  the  Campaign,  in  Jersey.  Washington 
was  collecting  his  Army,  in  that  part  of  the  Pro 
vince — which  borders  on  the  Delaware. 

Howe's  object  must  be  to  bring  his  antagonist 
to  an  engagement — if  possible.  The  American 
General  is  greatly  his  superior  in  point  of  abili 
ties—and  will,  without  doubt,  avoid  opposing  his 
young  troops — to  Howe's  veterans — unless  some 
very  advantageous  circumstances — make  it  proper 
to  do  so. 

The  Ministry,  and  their  friends,  talk  confiden 
tially  of  success  ;  on  the  other  hand — the  Congress 
talk  of  driving  the  British  Army  out  of  America, 


[  287  ] 

the  ensuing  Campaign.  Neither  of  these  opin 
ions,  I  believe,  will  be  found  true.  I  expect  a 
great  deal  of  blood  will  be  spilt,  in  America,  this 
year — without  anything  very  decisive  being  done. 
But  I  believe  as  firmly  as  I  do  that  God  created 
the  World— that,  before  the  expiration  of  the  year 
1788,  the  cause  of  America,  will  be  triumphant— 
and  her  Independence,  perfectly  established. 

The  partisans  of  the  Ministry  assert— that  Howe 
will  be  in  possession  of  Philadelphia,  by  the  1st 
of  June.  This,  I  am  sure,  will  not  be  the  case. 
If  Washington  does  not  find  it  expedient,  to  come 
to  a  general  action — Sir  William  Howe,  may  be 
in  Philadelphia,  during  the  course  of  the  summer ; 
should  that  be  the  case — he  will  not  be  the  least 
nearer  subjugating  America — than  he  is  at  present. 
That  event,  I  hold  to  be  utterly  impossible. 

Would  to  God,  it  had  never  been  attempted. 
Great  Britain,  is  now  fruitlessly  exhausting  her 
strength,  and  tearing  out  her  own  Bowels. — 
France  is  lying  by — carefully  watching  for  an  op 
portunity  of  taking  ample  revenge — for  the  dis 
grace — and  losses — she  met  with  last  War. 

Your  friends,  in  Bengal,  have  probably  some 
times  letters  from  England — on  the  subject  of 
America ; — their  accounts,  it  is  likely,  will  differ 
from  mine.  Be  assured,  that  I  have  the  means  of 


[  288  ] 

being  well-informed  in  this  business.  The  facts 
that  I  mention  you  may  rely  upon.  With  regard 
to  the  points  which  are  yet  undecided — my  opin 
ions  will  have  just  the  weight,  you  think  they  de 
serve.  The  event  alone  can  show  whether  they 
have  been  well  founded. 

The  affairs  of  Madras,  have  made  some  noise. 
There  are  many  publications  on  the  subject — but 
my  mind  is  too  much  agitated — with  concerns  that 
are  much  more  interesting  to  me — to  allow  of  my 
attending  to  them,  so  as  to  make  myself  master 
of  the  business.  It  seems,  I  think,  hard,  to  recall 
all  the  parties.  The  Nabob  will  be  perfectly 
happy  at  getting  rid  of  Lord  Pigot ;  and  as  to 
the  inconveniences  that  the  majority  of  the  Coun 
cil  will  experience — that  will  give  him  no  great 
distress. 

I  am  happy  that  you  are  out  of  the  scrape — and 
I  hope  that  you  will  continue  to  experience  no 
thing  but  prosperity  and  happiness. 

My  mind  has  suffered  more  uneasiness,  during 
the  last  two,  or  three  years — than  I  ever  thought  it 
would  have  been  my  lot  to  have  known  in  this 
world.  I  have  been  very  desirous  of  getting  to 
America.  The  only  possible  way  of  doing  so, 
is,  by  the  French  West  Indies.  This,  I  should  not 
hesitate  an  instant  about— if  it  were  not  for  my 


[  289  ] 

Wife,  and  Children.  I  cannot  think  of  exposing 
them  to  the  danger  of  being  taken  at  sea — and, 
perhaps,  being  ill-treated. 

I  mean  to  go  to  France,  next  month — with  my 
family — and  reside  there,  till  I  go  to  America.  I 
can  live  there,  much  cheaper  than  I  can  here — and 
the  opinions  of  the  people  there,  are  much  more 
agreeable  to  my  own — than  they  are  in  England. 
We  think  alike  in  this  unhappy  business — but  our 
thoughts  spring  from  very  different  motives. 
They  rejoice  to  think  that  the  pride — and  power 
of  England — will  be  humbled  in  the  dust.  What 
little  satisfaction  I  feel  on  the  subject,  arises  from 
a  thorough  persuasion  that  that  pride— and  power, 
will  not  be  able  to  deprive  us  of  the  rights  of  hu 
manity. 

Continue  to  write  to  me.  Mr.  Gemmell  will 
know  how  to  forward  your  letters  to  me.  I  fre 
quently  see  our  friends  in  Perry-street.  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Blake,  are  still  in  Newman-street — she  is 
still  in  the  state  you  always  knew  her.  He  talks 
of  taking,  and  leaving  her  at  Aix-la-Chapelle — and 
going  to  Carolina,  himself.  This  scheme,  I  be 
lieve,  will  take  place.  His  brother  is  in  the  South 
of  France,  with  his  family.  What  he  intends  do 
ing,  I  know  not. 

Mrs.  Izard  and  the  little  girls  offer  their  best 
26 


[  290  ] 

regards  to  you.     I  am  vexed  to  find  that  none  of 
my  letters  have  got  safe  to  your  hands. 

Adieu,  dear  Livins. 


From  John  Lloyd,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

NANTES,  May  22,  1777. 
DEAR  Sm : — 

Since  I  had  the  pleasure  to  write 
you — several  vessels  have  arrived  here,  from  dif 
ferent  parts  of  America.  Among  the  number,  is 
a  Schooner  from  Charlestown,  called  the  Rut- 
ledge,  belonging  to  Mr.  Gillon.  She  left  it,  the 
15th  March.  The  Captain  brought  no  letters, 
and  only  two  papers ;  these  omissions  are  not 
made  up  by  his  being  intelligent — unfortunately, 
his  knowledge  extends  not  beyond  the  limits  of 
his  own  particular  sphere  of  action.  The  infor 
mation  which  I  have  obtained,  is The  particu 
lar  accounts  of  Colonel  Fuzar's  too  successful  ex 
pedition — with  a  detachment  from  St.  Augustine, 


[291  J 

the  material  circumstances  of  which  I  have  seen  in 
the  English  papers — and  therefore  shall  not  trouble 
you  with  a  recapitulation.  His  attack  occasioned 
some  little  alarm  to  the  State  of  Georgia — but  proper 
means  were  taken  to  prevent  any  ill  consequences. 

I  am  sorry  to  inform  you  that  the  Randolph  Fri 
gate,  soon  after  she  parted  from  the  Capes  of  Del 
aware — met  with  so  severe  a  gale — as  obliged  the 
Captain  to  cut  away  all  her  masts — and  to  bear 
away  for  Charlestown — where  she  fortunately  ar 
rived,  and  was  repairing  with  all  possible  expedi 
tion. 

The  state  of  Carolina  appears  to  be  perfectly 
tranquil.  The  Legislature  have  passed  a  good 
many  salutary  laws — among  them  is  one  for  ap 
pointing  Commissioners  to  ratify  a  permanent 
peace  with  the  Cherokees.  The  Planters  are  re 
ceiving  very  satisfactory  prices  for  their  produce. 
Rice  was  at  60s  and  Indigo  from  30s  to  50s  per 
pound  ;  the  high  price  of  this  article  is  owing  to 
the  great  demand — and  their  having  shipped  such 
immense  quantities  to  the  West  Indies.  The  car 
goes  which  the  foreign  vessels  bring,  being  very 
considerable — the  Captains  from  necessity  have 
been  obliged  to  invest  the  proceeds,  in  that  article ; 
on  account  of  its  value,  in  a  small  bulk — the  mar 
ket  was  so  drained,  that  there  remained  none  for 


[  292  ] 

sale — but  that  which  was  of  very  inferior  quality. 
This  circumstance  compelled  the  adventurers  to 
purchase  Rice — which  occasioned  a  demand  for 
more  than  the  market  was  regularly  supplied  with 
— owing  to  the  want  of  craft — to  bring  it  to  town — 
the  large  schooners,  and  hands  that  used  to  be  em 
ployed  in  the  business— were  occupied  ingoing  to» 
and  from  the  West  Indies — and  happily  lately  they 
had  met  with  very  little  interruption.  As  the 
quantity  of  Rice  remaining  in  the  State,  was  very 
considerable — I  do  not  suppose  so  good  a  price 
can  continue  long— as  I  have  not  a  doubt  but  that 
the  Planters  will  find  some  method  to  supply  the 
market. 

Captain  Cockran,  who  loaded  at  this  port,  with 
Arms — Ammunition — and  Clothing,  on  account  of 
the  State — was  safe  arrived— and  on  his  passage 
took  an  armed  transport  bound  from  Cork  to  New- 
York.  Their  two  Privateers  have  been  very  suc 
cessful  in  taking— and  fortunate  in  getting  their 
prizes  safe  into  port. 

Mr.  Cushing's  son — of  Boston,  landed  here  lately 
with  dispatches  for  the  Honorable  Commissioners. 
He  left  New  England  the  10th  of  last  month — the 
last  post  from  Paris  brought  me  the  substance  of 
their  contents,  which  is — that  both  Armies  con 
tinued  to  possess  the  same  posts  which  they  have 


[  293  ] 

had  for  some  time  past — that  skirmishes  were  fre 
quent — and  had  generally  terminated  in  favor  of  the 
Americans — but  none  of  them  were  of  sufficient 
consequence  to  mention — except  one  lately  near 
Amboy — which  by  the  American  account,  resem 
bles  the  Lexington  retreat — and  they  made  the 
loss  of  the  Royalists  in  killed — wounded — and  pri 
soners — five  hundred  and  nine  men.  Most  of  the 
different  States  had  raised  their  respective  quotas. 
A  considerable  reinforcement  had  marched  for 
Ticonderoga.  The  Congress  found  no  difficulty 
in  raising  money  by  Loans — and  their  Lottery 
was  fully  subscribed  for.  Ten  frigates  were  at 
sea — from  twenty  to  thirty-six  guns — more  were 
building — and  also  some  seventy-four  gun  ships. 
The  father  of  the  before  mentioned  young  gentle 
man — has  the  superintendence  of  that  upon  the 
stocks  at  Boston. 

The  report  of  General  Washington's  being  very 
ill — is  without  foundation.  It  is  true  that  in  re- 
connoitering  the  Enemy,  he  had  a  fall  from  his 
horse — but  it  was  not^attended  with  any  bad  conse 
quences. 

You  may  depend  upon  it — that  Lord — and  Gene 
ral  Howe — through  General  Lee — have  intimated  a 
wish — to  commence  a  pacific  negotiation  with  Con 
gress — but  as  that  body — expressly  refused  to  enter 
26* 


[  294  ] 

upon  the  subject  of  treaty,  previous  to  the  acknow 
ledgement  of  the  Independence  of  the  United 
States — it  produced  nothing.  There  has  been  an 
insurrection  among  some  Tories — on  the  Eastern 
shore  of  Maryland — the  number  was  not  very  con 
siderable — a  detachment  of  Connecticut  troops 
soon  set  them  right. 

Since  the  apprehension  of  War  between  France 
and  England  has  subsided — the  French  Merchants 
are  become  very  capital  adventurers.  Several 
very  valuable  Cargoes  are  already  dispatched  to 
Virginia — Philadelphia— Maryland — and  South  Ca 
rolina — and  many  more  are  preparing  to  follow — - 
and  vessels  are  building  for  the  express  purpose  of 
trading  to  Virginia  and  Maryland.  They  seem 
confident  in  an  opinion  that  the  Court  of  France — 
will  claim  any  of  their  ships — that  may  be  taken — 
without  they  have  warlike  stores  on  board.  It  is 
now  pretty  evident  to  me  that  the  French  Ministry 
are  not  desirous  of  taking  an  active  part  in  the 
American  contest — but  notwithstanding — I  have  not 
a  doubt — but  they  will  connive  at  the  Americans' 
being  supplied  with  Arms,  and  Ammunition,  from 
their  ports — and  will  give  them  every  encourage 
ment  to  come  and  trade. 

I  am  now  to  present  my  thanks  for  your  oblig 
ing  favor  of  the  9th  instant.  Such  authentic  intel- 


[  295  ] 

ligence  is  very  acceptable.  Your  dates  from  Ame 
rica  are  later  than  ours.  We  have  certain  advices 
of  the  safe  arrival  of  very  considerable  supplies  of 
Arms — Ammunition — and  Clothing — and  we  have 
not  a  doubt  but  that  the  Amphitrite  is  one  of  the 
vessels — though  her  name  is  not  particularly  men 
tioned.  ******* 

I  am  very  anxious  to  hear  the  cause— and  to 
know  the  consequences  of  the  confinement  of  the 
Captain — and  Seamen  of  the  Privateer  at  Dun 
kirk — who  took  the  Harwich  packet. 

The  Merchants  whom  I  would  recommend  to 
you,  are  Monsieur  I.  D.  Schweighansen,  at  this 
port — Monsieur  Andrew  Limosen,  at  Havre — and 
Messrs.  Desegray,  Beaugerd— Son  &  Co.  at  St.  Ma- 
loes.  I  must  defer  my  recommendation  at  Bor 
deaux — till  I  go  there — which  I  intend  to  do  about 
three  weeks  or  a  month  hence. 

Your  acquaintances  here — are  all  pretty  well — 
and  join  Mrs.  L.  in  respectful  compliments  to  Mrs.  I. 
and  yourself— with  which  and  the  most  sincere 
assurance,  I  subscribe, 

Dear  sir,  yours, 

J.  L. 


L  296  J 

From  the  same  to  the  same. 

NANTES,  June  5,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  have  now  to  acquaint  you,  that 
three  more  vessels  arrived  here  from  Charlestown — 
and  their  cargoes  are  upon  private  account — and 
consist  of  about  2,000  bbls.  Rice  and  60,000  Ibs. 
Indigo.  The  last  left  the  port  the  21st  April— 
when  there  were  in  the  harbour  upwards  of  one 
hundred  sail.  The  Indigo  being  all  bought,  occa 
sioned  such  a  demand  for  Rice — that  it  was  thought 
the  principal  part— if  not  the  whole  of  the  last  crop — 
would  be  exported — the  price  was  505.  The  great 
supplies  of  necessary  articles — with  their  internal 
manufactures — will,  I  doubt  not — enable  them  to 
pass  the  next  winter  without  much  inconvenience. 
Cotton  is  produced  in  such  plenty,  that  considera 
ble  quantities  may  be  bought.  Mr.  Hey  ward,  who 
I  suppose  has  as  many  negroes  as  any  gentleman 
in  the  State— makes  clothing  sufficient  for  their  ser 
vice.  All  the  King's  Officers — and  some  others — 
who  refused  to  take  the  Abjuration  oath — were  pur- 


[  297  ] 

suant  to  orders— preparing  to  leave  the  State— 
which  they  are  compelled  to  do  in  thirty-five  days. 

******** 

Mr.  Blake  has  fifteen  casks  of  Indigo  arrived 

here — shipped  by  his  attorney  Mr.  F .     It  is 

said  that  the  exportation  of  it — as  the  property  of  an 
absentee — occasioned  so  much  conversation  in 

Charlestown— that  Mr.  F thought  it  needful  to 

apply  to  the  President — who  called  a  privy  coun 
cil — and  it  is  reported  that  the  opinion  was — that 
no  part  of  the  proceeds  ought  to  be  received  by 
Mr.  B.  It  is  therefore  ordered  to  be  invested  in 
articles  necessary  for  his  plantations.  This  deter 
mination  appears  to  me  so  directly  contrary  to  the 
consistent  resolution  of  the  Legislative  body — that 
I  cannot  reconcile  it.  Admit  that  they  are  desirous 
for  persons  possessed  of  Estates — to  return — certain 
ly  it  should  be  considered  that  they  have  unavoida 
bly — for  a  considerable  time — been  contracting 
debts — and  which  they  cannot  discharge — without 
obtaining  the  needful  from  Carolina — which  if  with 
held — the  natural  consequence  to  be  supposed  is — 
their  detention  for  non-payment.  I  cannot  imagine 
that  a  subject  of  Britain,  resident  in  this  State- 
would  be  permitted  to  leave  it,  in  compliance  with 
his  King's  requisition — without  satisfying  his  credi 
tors  My  first  letter  to  his  Excellency,  was  upon 


[  298  J 

this  subject— and* I  flatter  myself— it  will  not  be 
long  before  I  shall  be  honored  with  a  reply — as  the 
vessel  by  which  I  wrote  is  safe  arrived  at  St.  Do 
mingo — and  was  preparing  to  proceed  from  thence 
to  Charlestown. 

We  have  nothing  new  from  America.  Our  hav 
ing  no  vessels  from  Philadelphia — inclines  me  to 
think  that  the  Delaware  is  blocked  up  by  Men-of- 
War.  By  a  ship  arrived  from  Martinique,  we  are 
informed  that  the  Seine— a  ship  dispatched  from 
Havre-de-Grace  with  military  stores  and  clothing, 
having  there  unloaded  her  cargo — which  was  re 
ceived  by  American  vessels — took  on  board  Rum, 
and  Molasses,  for  St.  Peters  Miquilon.  During 
this  time  there  lay  in  the  Rodd— a  British  Frigate, 
the  Captain  of  which — when  the  Seine  was  scarce 
clear  of  the  harbour — sent  an  armed  boat  with 
twenty-two  men — who  boarded  her — and  she  with 
the  Frigate — proceeded  to  Dominico  ;  she  had  a 
good  many  Officers  on  board-— as  passengers — who 
complain  of  ill  usage.  The  person  who  transmits 
this  intelligence,  says — that  the  Governor  was  so 
extremely  angry— at  this  unjustifiable  insult— that 
he  was  resolved  to  order  reprisals. 

I  think  at  present  of  going  to  Bordeaux  in  about 
three  weeks — for  the  purpose  of  seeing  how  busi 
ness  is— and  may  be  conducted  there.  This  Port 


[  299  ] 

is  not  so  convenient — and  suitable  for  the  Carolina 
trade  as  I  could  wish.         *         *         *         * 
Your  friends  here  are  all  well. 
Mrs.  Smith  joins  in  every  affectionate  assurance 
for  Mrs.  Colley,  your  good  self—and  family,  with 
him,  who  is 

Most  sincerely  yours, 

THOS.  SMITH.* 


From  Mr.  Colley  to  Thos.  Smith,  Esq. 

LONDON,  June  19,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  am  very  glad  to  find,  by  your 
letter  of  the  5th  June,  that  there  have  been  three 
arrivals  at  Nantes,  from  Charlestown — and  that 


*  It  was  thought  prudent  to  use  fictitious  names  at  the  time 
these  letters  were  written.  Mr.  Izard  took  that  of  Colley,  Mr, 
Lloyd  that  of  Smith. 


[  300  ] 

they  have  brought  favorable  accounts  of  the  situa 
tion  of  affairs. 

It  is  a  most  fortunate  circumstance,  that  they 
have  been  able  to  supply  themselves,  so  plenti 
fully  with  their  own  Cotton  Manufactures.  Some 
Blankets  of  that  stuff,  which  I  saw  in  the  South 
of  France — and  in  several  parts  of  Italy — were 
well  adapted  to  the  climate  of  Carolina — and  I 
hope  to  hear  of  their  making  them  there  soon. 
Some  samples — and  workmen,  with  proper  Tools — 
might  easily  be  sent  from  Nantes — and  Bordeaux. 
I  am  surprised  at  the  Resolution  of  the  President, 

and  Council,  respecting  Mr.  B 's  remittance. 

The  murmurs  of  the  common  people  are  not  to  be 
wondered  at — they  are  always  apt  to  suspect — and 
complain — if  they  do  not  find  everybody  precisely 
in  the  same  situation  with  themselves.  But  the 
gentlemen  of  the  Council  ought  to  know  that 
there  are  more  ways,  than  one,  to  serve  one's 
country. 

If  I  am  included  under  the  general  head  of  ab 
sentees — and  my  property,  in  consequence,  is  with 
held  from  me— I  shall  think  myself  extremely  ill- 
used.  If  I  am  acquainted  at  all,  with  my  own 
character — I  think  it  is  not  that  of  a  vain  boaster. 
A  man  of  any  degree  of  modesty — is  reduced  to  a 
very  disagreeable  situation — when  he  is  compelled, 


[  301  ] 

either  to  speak  of  himself— or  to  suffer  by  his  si 
lence — suspicions  to  be  cast  upon  his  character. 
I  will  be  bold  to  say,  that  if  it  is  thought  in  Caro 
lina,  that  any  man  there,  has  been  more  uniform 
ly  hearty,  in  the  cause — or  exerted  himself  to  the 
extent  of  his  ability — more  than  I  have  done — it  is 
an  injurious  supposition— and  can  only  be  founded 
on  a  want  of  information. 

I  have,  from  the  beginning  of  the  troubles, 
done  everything  in  my  power ;  even  before  the 
appearance  of  Sir  Egerton  Leigh's  pamphlet, 
down  to  the  present  time.  If  any  man  in  Caro 
lina,  thinks  that  I  was  not  exposed  to  considerable 
danger  in  consequence  of  the  active  part  I  took 
in  endeavoring  to  stem  the  torrent,  at  the  time  of 
the  passing  of  the  Boston  Port — and  other  bills — fatal 
to  the  liberties  of  America — he  is  mistaken.  I 
hope  that  the  Council,  upon  revising  that  Resolu 
tion,  will  see  cause  to  alter  it.  However  strong 
their  inclination  may  be,  for  the  return  of  absen 
tees — my  own,  to  be  in  America — is,  at  least,  equal 
ly  strong.  But  there  are  such  difficulties  in  my 
way — as  are  not  to  be  surmounted.  I  shall  wrrite 
to  Rutledge,  on  this  subject — by  the  first  good  op 
portunity  that  I  hear  of.  In  the  enclosed  letter  to 
my  cousin  Ralph,  I  have  touched  upon  it ;  you  will 
be  so  good  as  to  forward  it  as  soon  as  you  can. 
27 


L  302  ] 

The  English  Ministry  are  exasperated,  to  a 
great  degree,  against  France — and  I  am  con 
vinced — they  are  now  meditating  a  War  against 
her.  The  taking  of  the  Island  of  St.  Catharine, 
by  Spain— will  probably  forward  this  event. 
Should  Portugal  continue  the  War— unsupported 
by  England — she  must  be  undone.  The  addition 
of  this  Kingdom — with  its  dependencies  in  the 
East  and  West  Indies,  to  the  natural  and  heredi 
tary  enemies  of  England — will  not  be  easily  con 
sented  to.  But  Portugal,  may  not  put  any  great 
confidence  in  the  support  of  England — and  may 
prefer  the  offer— which  I  am  well  assured  has 
been  made  to  her— of  being  admitted  a  party  in 
the  Bourbon  family  compact.  Wherever  this 
country  turns  her  eyes— the  prospect  is  but 
gloomy. 


[  303  ] 

From  Mr.  hard  to  Ralph  hard,  Jun.>  Esq. 

LONDON,  June  19,  1777. 
DEAR  RALPH  : — 


It  is  impossible  for  me  to  get  my  family  to  Amer 
ica,  and  I  find  it  difficult  to  maintain  them  in  Eu 
rope.  Mr.  Laurens,  I  hear,  is  chosen  a  Delegate 
to  the  Congress.  If  neither  he— nor  Rutledge, 
are  in  Carolina — I  must  beg  the  favor  of  you  to 
see  that  some  remittances  are  made  me—either  in 
Bills— or  produce.  Probably,  Mr.  John  Laurens 
will— before  this  gets  to  your  hands— be  arrived  in 
Charlestown.  Should  his  father  and  Rutledge, 
be  both  absent,  I  dare  say  he  will  assist  yon,  in 
rendering  me  any  service.  I  beg  you  will  offer 
my  affectionate  regards  to  him.  I  had  the  plea 
sure  of  seeing  his  wife  and  daughter,  three  or  four 

days  ago. 

*******         * 

I  intend  carrying  my  family,  next  month,  to 
France—not  to  return  to  this  unfortunate  country 
any  more. 


[  304  ] 


The  Ministry— and  their  abettors— talk  confident 
ly  of  success,  during  the  ensuing  Campaign.  For 
my  part— I  have  not  the  least  doubt— but  that  they 
will  be  completely  disappointed — their  pride  hum 
bled — and  this  long  deluded— and  insulted  Nation, 
will,  at  last,  when  it  is  too  late,  see  that  they  have 
been  betrayed  and  ruined — by  as  foolish,  and  bad 
a  set  of  men — as  ever  a  country  was  cursed  with. 
The  Treaty  with  the  Germans,  was  the  Bill  of 
Divorce  between  Great  Britain  and  America.  I 
visited  the  Ministry  before  that  fatal  measure  was 
finally  concluded — and  told  them  so.  Had  not 
their  accursed  pride,  made  them  deaf  to  the  voice 
of  reason,  they  would  have  sent  Commissioners  to 
treat  with  the  Congress,  without  an  army.  So 
might  peace  have  been  restored — the  noblest  Em 
pire  in  the  world  have  continued  undivided — and 
happiness  diffused  through  every  part  of  it.  That 
opportunity  is  now  lost,  without  a  possibility  of  its 
ever  being  recovered.  I  am,  &c. 

R.  I. 

P.  S.  *  *  *  *  * 

I  know  not  whether  any  orders  have  been  given 
about  me — or  whether  any  general  resolutions, 
respecting  absentees,  are  intended  to  operate  in 
discriminately.  I  hope  this  will  not  be  the  case , 


[  305  ] 

as  I  gave  sufficient  reasons,  for  my  absence — both 
to  Lynch  and  Rutledge — some  months  ago.  I  am 
greatly  afflicted  at  the  death  of  Lynch.  His  loss, 
to  America,  in  general — and  to  the  Province  in 
particular,  is  great — but  to  me  it  is  irreparable.  If 
he  were  alive,  I  trust  I  should  have  had  a  friend, 
who  would  have  made  all  explanations  on  my 
part,  at  present  unnecessary.  I  shall  hope  that 
they  are  so.  *  *  * 


From  Thos.  Smith,  Esq.  to  Mr.  Colley. 

NANTES,  July  2,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

My  last  was  the  20th  ultimo.  I  have 
since  received,  in  due  course,  your  favor  of  the 
19th,  covering  a  letter  which  I  shall  take  great 
care  in  forwarding.  * 

Two  vessels  are  arrived  at  Bordeaux — from 
Charlestown — one  in  thirty-six,  the  other  in  forty- 
eight  days.  *  *  * 
They  have  brought  me  letters  of  the  7th  May. 
The  first  vessel  that  sailed  after  I  came  here— ar- 
27* 


[  306  ] 

rived  safe  in  Charlestown.  I  wrote  by  her  to 
my  friend,  and  Attorney,  Mr.  Lowndes— and  in 
formed  him  of  my  intention  to  send  out  some 
Charters,  from  France. 

On  the  5th  May,  arrived  at  Charlestown,  five  sail 
of  larger  vessels  from  France,  with  suitable  car 
goes  for  the  State — and  which  will  find  a  very  ad 
vantageous  market.  A  very  considerable  and 
uninterrupted  trade,  has  been  carried  on  from  the 
Port,  for  many  months— -and  as  they  have  one  of 
the  Continental  frigates,  of  thirty-two  guns — with 
six  large  privateer  brigs— to  cruise  on  the  coast, 
they  expect  it  will  be  kept  clear  of  single  English 
frigates.  *  ****** 
The  Mercury— a  French  ship — was  despatched 
from  hence  with  Arms — Amunition— and  Clothing 
the  particulars  of  whose  cargo  you  will  recollect 
to  have  seen  published  in  the  English  papers  as 
safely  landed — is  arrived  here,  from  Portsmouth, 
in  New  Hampshire,  which  port  she  left  the  3d  June. 
She  has  brought  some  despatches  for  the  Com 
missioners. 

On  the  23d  May,  a  detachment  from  General 
Parsons'  Army,  crossed  the  Sound,  from  Connecti 
cut,  and  landed  near  Sagg-Harbour,  on  Long  Island, 
(where  the  Royalists  had  a  considerable  Maga 
zine,)  which  they  totally  destroyed,  as  also  a  great 


[  307  ] 

number  of  Craft— and  took  ninety  prisoners.  This 
successful  business — was  accomplished  without  the 
loss  of  a  man — on  the  side  of  the  Americans. 

We  are  happy  at  last,  in  receiving  authentic  in 
formation  respecting  the  Amphitrite's  safe  arrival. 
The  Mercury  left  her  at  Portsmouth— where  she 
arrived  after  a  passage  of  ninety  days— of  which 
time  she  was  a  month  beating  about  the  coast  of 
America— and  fortunately  during  that  period— did 
not  see  any  British  Cruisers.  Her  Cargo  consisted 
of  sixty  Brass  Cannon— with  every  necessary  com 
plete.  Tents  and  Camp  equipage  for  ten  thousand 
men— Clothing — and  accoutrements  for  the  same 
number— ten  tons  of  Powder— six  thousand  Mus 
kets — and  Bayonets— a  great  quantity  of  Blankets- 
Lead — Ball,  &c.  &c.  The  whole  was  landed  with 
the  utmost  expedition — and  sent  to  General  Wash 
ington.  Twenty-four  experienced  French  Officers 
of  the  train,  were  passengers— and  a  Colonel  Con- 
way—in  the  French  service— who  was  immediately 
appointed  a  Brigadier  General. 

Tryon's  excursion  to  Danbury — appears  exactly 
similar  to  the  Lexington  expedition.  The  Ameri 
cans  buried  sixty- two  regulars — and  took  forty  pri 
soners — with  a  great  number  of  waggons  and 
horses.  ******* 

General  Wooster  died  of  the  wound  he  received. 


[  308  ] 

General  Washington,  in  a  letter  to  Congress,  ac 
quaints  them— that  he  had  been  informed  from 
Ticonderoga,  that  three  thousand  Men  were  ar 
rived  there  in  good  health  and  spirits.  A  para 
graph  in  one  of  the  late  papers — mentions,  that  ad 
vice  had  been  received — that  seven  stores  at  St. 
Johns— containing  the  rigging,  &e.  &c.,  of  the 
Vessels  on  the  Lake — were  destroyed  by  fire. 

A  person  was  executed  at  Philadelphia  for  at 
tempting  to  engage  three  of  the  Chevaux-de-frize 
Pilots.  He  was  employed  in  this  business  by  Gal- 
way.  The  Pilots  got  from  him — fifty  half  Joes — 
and  then  discovered  him.  There  are  accounts  of 
many  executions  in  the  different  States — for  various 
offences.  No  particular  news  from  General  Wash 
ington's  Army— or  of  Howe's  commencement  of 
the  Campaign.  From  his  preparations—and  the 
best  information  that  could  be  obtained — it  seemed 
to  be  the  most  prevalent  opinion — that  he  had  in 
contemplation  a  design  to  attack  Philadelphia. 
However,  they  were  not  without  some  suspicion 
of  an  intention  to  invade  the  Massachusetts— and 
where  preparations  were  making  to  receive  his 
troops. 

Three  Continental  Cruisers— from  this  Port — 
have  taken  in  the  Irish— and  St.  George's  Channel — 
eighteen  prizes — eight  of  which  being  of  little 


[  309  ] 

value — they  sunk  seven — and  gave  one  to  their 
prisoners.  Two  were  smugglers — to  whom  they 
gave  their  entire  property.  The  remaining  eight, 
had  prize  masters  on  board — with  orders  to  put 
into  the  nearest  French  port.  Of  the  number — 
only  two  are  yet  arrived — one  here — the  other  at 
Dunkirk.  Among  them— is  a  very  valuable  West 
India  ship.  The  three  Cruisers — on  their  return 
to  this  port — off  Ushant — were  chased  by  a  seven 
ty-four  gun  ship— which  obliged  them  to  bear 
away,  up  the  Channel.  The  Reprisal — Captain 
Weekes — after  throwing  her  guns  overboard— got 
safe  into  St.  Maloes,  with  her  tender — and  the 
Lexington — Captain  Johnson — (which  sails  re 
markably  fast) — put  into  Morlaix. 

Two  vessels  are  arrived — one  here — the  other 
at  Rochelle — from  a  Northern  port  of  North  Caro 
lina.  Their  two  cargoes  amount  to  near  five  hun 
dred  hhds.  of  Tobacco — which  is  arrived  to  a 
great  Market.  ***** 

With  the  compliments  of  your  friends  here  to 
Mrs.  C.,  and  your  good  self,  I  am, 

Most  assuredly,  yours, 

T.  SMITH. 


[310] 

From  Mr.  hard  to  the  Earl  of  Shelbume. 

NEWMAN  STREET,  July  3, 1777. 
MY  LORD  : — 

I  am  just  favored  with  your  Lord 
ship's  note— and  am  sorry  it  will  not  be  in  my 
power  to  accept  of  the  invitation  which  you  have 
done  me  the  honor  to  make. 

In  about  ten  days  I  think  of  leaving  England — 
unhappy  in  not  expecting  ever  to  return  again. 

Your  Lordship  was  so  good  as  to  offer  me  let 
ters  to  Nantes— and  at  Blois,  or  some  other  town 
on  the  Loire.  At  present,  I  have  no  thoughts  of 
settling  there— but  shall  fix  with  my  family—for 
some  months  at  least— in  the  neighborhood  of 
Paris. 

I  shall  receive  with  pleasure  your  Lordship's 
commands,  and  am, 

My  Lord, 
Your  Lordship's  ob't,  humble  serv't. 

RA  :  IZARD. 


[  311  ] 

From  the  Earl  of  Shelburne  to  Mr.  hard. 

BOWOOD  PARK,  July  o,  1777. 
SIR:— 

It  gives  me  excessive  concern— when  I 
hear  of  an  American  of  your  property— and  cha 
racter  quitting  this  country.  I  cannot  persuade 
myself,  yet,  that  our  Infatuation  is  irrecoverable— 
and  that  things  may  not  still  return  to  our  old  and 
Natural  Union.  It  will  add  to  the  satisfaction  of 
such  an  event— if  it  is  permitted— that  I  may  have 
an  opportunity  of  renewing  the  honor  of  your  ac 
quaintance—and  friendship.  In  the  mean  time,  if 
I  can  possibly  do  you  pleasure  or  service— here, 
or  in  France— you  may  freely  command  me. 

I  am  connected  with  a  most  respectable  French 
family  at  Nantes.  I  have  myself  no  acquaintances 
at  Blois— but  I  know  those  who  have— to  whom  I 
will  not  fail  to  write— when  I  hear  your  determi 
nation.  I  am,  wishing  you  Honour— and  Happi 
ness  in  these  troublous  times, 
With  great  regard, 

Sir,  your  most  obedient, 
And  most  humble  serv't, 
SHELBURNE. 


[  312  ] 

From  Richard  Champion,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 
BRISTOL,  July  16,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — - 

Our  worthy  and  common  friend — Mr. 
Digges — has  just  now  made  me  acquainted  with 
your  determination  to  leave  England,  within  a 
very  short  time.  I  am  concerned  at  it — because  I 
promised  myself  the  pleasure  of  seeing  you — be 
fore  you  took  a  final  leave  of  a  kingdom — which 
once  attracted  your  regard — and  whose  character, 
as  a  nation,  stood  very  high  in  fame.  Englishman 
as  I  am — and  possessing  a  warm  affection  for  my 
native  country,  I  cannot  refrain  from  blushing  at 
its  unworthy  conduct.  Every  excuse  I  can  form 
for  it  will  not  cover  its  errors — they  can  only 
reach  to  pity— for  the  delusory  madness  which 
possesses  it — attended  with  an  anxious  hope— that 
it  will  open  its  eyes,  to  the  weakness — and 
wickedness  of  its  Governors — by  whose  ill  con 
duct—the  great— and  flourishing  prospects  of  this 
happy  Empire,  have  vanished  in  a  moment.  No 
people  ever  possessed  more  real  enjoyments — nor 


[  313  ] 

did  any  people  ever  more  absurdly  lose  them. 
And  must  this  great  Empire  be  dissevered  ?  Must 
two  countries  happy  in  their  connections — allied  to 
each  other,  by  the  nearest  ties  of  blood  and  friend 
ship — suited  by  Language — Custom  and  Manners 
— be  disjoined  for  ever?  Such  has  been  our 
folly — such  has  been  the  necessity — to  which  you 
have  been  driven — that  however  severe  the  lot — 
it  must  be.  May  you  then — when  we  cease  to  be 
one  people — enjoy  that  happiness,  which  was  for 
merly  our  common  lot — and  practising  the  Virtues 
which  have  characterized  an  Englishman — may 
you  continue  the  race  of  Heroes — to  which — well 
as  I  love  my  country — I  must  almost  confess — 
England  itself  has  lost  its  claim.  Yet,  in  the  midst 
of  conquest,  forget  not — that  there  remain  in  the 
country  you  leave — some  friends — whose  regret  at 
parting,  is  only  equalled  by  their  affectionate  Re 
gard  for  you.  For  their  sakes,  suffer  not  your 
Resentment  to  take  too  deep  a  root.  England  may 
recover  from  her  Delusion — and  see  the  injustice 
she  has  done  you.  She  must  feel,  and  weep  over 
her  own  misfortunes.  In  that  hour  of  distress — 
have  compassion  on  her — consider  that  she  was 
once  your  Parent — and  though  her  conduct  merits 
not  your  former  confidence — yet,  if  we  cannot  be 
one  People — let  the  remembrance  of  our  former 
28 


I  314] 

Happiness,  make  us  faithful  and  affectionate 
friends.  Permit  me  to  tell  you  that  I  shall  ever 
esteem  myself  happy  in  the  execution  of  your  com 
mands—and  in  any  thing  which  you  can  point  out 
to  me  that  I  can  be  useful  to  you — you  will  do  me 
a  particular  pleasure  in  giving  me  an  opportunity 
of  showing  those  sentiments  of  Esteem  and  Respect 
with  which  I  am, 

Dear  Sir, 

Your  most  ob't.  servant, 
RICHARD  CHAMPION. 


From  Thomas  Smith,  Esq.  to  Mr.  Colley. 

NANTES,  July  17,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  :— 

I  had  the  pleasure  in  due  course 
to  receive  yours  of  the  1st  inst. — the  whole  tenor 
of  which  proved  exceedingly  agreeable.  I  have 
now  to  transmit  to  you,  an  acceptable  occurrence 
— of  its  authenticity  I  have  not  the  least  doubt. 
The  news  was  received  here  previous  to  the  de- 


[  315  ] 

parture  of  the  last  post — but  as  I  could  not  then 
give  my  full  testimony  to  it — I  determined  to  defer 
my  information. 

I  think  in  a  former  letter  that  I  acquainted  you 
of  the  sailing  of  three  Frigates,  and  some  large 
Privateers  from  Boston.  On  the  third  day,  two  of 
the  former,  (viz.)  the  Hancock,  Captain  Manly— 
and  the  Boston,  Captain  McNeil — met  the  Fox — 
an  English  Frigate.  Captain  Manly,  who  was  the 
commanding  officer,  being  determined  to  have  the 
honour  of  engaging  her  singly — made  a  signal  for 
the  Boston  to  lay  too — which  she  did  during  the 
whole  action — (without  firing  a  shot).  It  continued 
five  hours.  The  Captain  of  the  Fox  behaved  like 
a  man  of  spirit — and  did  not  strike,  until  after  he 
had  lost  his  main  mast,  and  was  a  perfect  wreck— 
with  a  considerable  loss  of  men.  The  Hancock 
received  but  little  injury,  except  in  her  rigging. 
She  had  nine  men  killed,  and  sixteen  wounded. 
This  account  is  brought  to  Bordeaux  by  the  Cap 
tain  of  a  ship,  who  met  the  frigates,  after  the  en 
gagement—and  was  some  time  on  board  the  Han 
cock — who  had  the  Fox  in  tow — on  account  of  her 
disabled  state.  They  were  all  standing  in  for  Bos 
ton.  This  testimony  is  attested  by  the  Admiralty. 
The  Captain  is  a  man  of  approved  veracity — and 
commands  a  very  large  ship  belonging  to  this  Port. 


[  316  ] 

What  I  have  transmitted,  I  had  from  two  Ameri 
can  gentlemen,  who  are  just  arrived  from  Bor 
deaux—and  who  received  the  intelligence  from  the 
Captain's  lips. 

The  Chamber  of  Commerce  here,  have  received 
an  assurance  from  the  Minister  at  Paris — that  the 
King  has  determined  not  to  permit  the  capture  of 
vessels — the  property  of  his  subjects — either  going 
to — or  coming  from  any  of  the  French  Colonies — 
let  their  cargoes  be  what  they  may.  This  infor 
mation  is  in  consequence  of  a  requisition  from 
hence,  occasioned  by  an  affidavit  of  a  Captain  of  a 
French  merchant  ship — who  was  brought  too,  in  the 
Bay  of  Biscay—by  an  English  Man-of-War — the 
Captain  of  which  told  him  expressly — "  that  he  had 
orders  to  take  all  French  vessels,  that  he  should  find, 
with  any  of  the  produce  of  the  Rebellious  Colonies. 

An  affair  has  lately  happened  at  Cherbourg, 
which  occasions  a  good  deal  of  conversation.  A 
small  American  Privateer,  with  a  prize— put  into 
that  Port — one  of  the  King's  Cutters  came  there 
soon  after — the  Commander  of  which---officiously 
sought  the  company  of  the  Commander  of  the  Pri 
vateer — who,  in  the  course  of  conversation,  ex 
pressed  the  want  of  a  good  spy-glass.  The  other 
replied  that  he  had  an  exceeding  good  one — which 
he  would  spare — if  the  Captain  would  go  on  board 


[  317  ] 

to  try  it — which  he  agreed  to — when  he  was  in- 
stantly  secured — and  the  Cutter  immediately  got 
under  sail  and  carried  him  to  England.  Some 
days  after — a  small  Cutter  came  over — apparently 
as  a  smuggler — but  from  some  peculiar  circum 
stances — there  was  cause  to  suppose  the  crew  had 
other  business — and  were  therefore  carefully 
watched.  One  night  twelve  of  them  were  appre 
hended — with  materials  for  a  destructive  fire.  It 
is  supposed  that  their  intention  was  only  to  burn 
the  Privateer ;  but  the  Inhabitants  will  not  place 
that  construction  upon  their  design — and  insist  that 
their  scheme  was  to  set  fire  to  the  town.  The 
Minister  has  sent  for  the  Commanding  Officer 
of  the  place— to  make  his  report  of  the  circum 
stances.  The  French  are  of  opinion  that  they  will 
suffer  death. 

What  do  you  think  of  the  circumstance  of  Mr. 
Lee's  papers  at  Berlin  ? 

Not  having  any  arrival  from  America  since  my 
last — I  have  not  further— but  to  present  the  compli 
ments  of  your  friends — united  with  Mrs.  Smith's 
and  my  own — with  which  I  subscribe, 
Dear  sir, 

Yours,  most  sincerely, 

T.  SMITH. 

P.  S.  19th. — This  letter  was  wrote  and  sealed, 
28* 


[  318  ] 

to  be  transmitted  by  the  last  post— but  from  the  de 
lay  of  carrying  it  to  the  office,  the  mail  was  closed 
before  it  was  delivered.  I  have  opened  it  to  trans 
mit  you  the  purport  of  several  letters  received  this 
day  from  Bordeaux.  This  moment,  your  letter  of 
the  llth  inst.  is  presented.  I  shall  accordingly  en 
close  this  to  Rouen.  T.  S. 


From  Edmund  Burke,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  hear  with  pleasure  that  you  are  still 
on  this  side  of  the  water.  I  thought  for  a  con 
siderable  time  that  you  had  left  us. 

This  delay,  will  I  hope  put  it  in  your  power  to 
do  Mrs.  Burke  and  me  a  favour,  we  have  long 
been  sincerely  desirous  of.  If  Mrs.  Izard  and  you 
will  spend  a  few  days  with  us,  we  shall  endeavour 
to  make  this  part  of  the  country  as  agreeable  to 
you  as  we  possibly  can.  Be  so  good  as  to  present 
our  best  compliments  to  Mrs.  Izard— and  prevail 
on  her  to  take  this  little  jaunt— which  is  but  of 


L  319  ] 

twenty-three  miles.     I  hope  the  weather  will  not 
long  continue  unfavorable. 

I  am,  with  the  greatest  esteem  and  regard, 
Dear  sir,  your  most  ob't.  and  humble  serv't. 

EDM.  BURKE. 
Beaconsfield,  Monday,  July  20,  1777. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  Benjamin  Bewicke,  Esq. 
BRIGHTHELMSTONE,  July  29,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  :— 

I  have  just  received  your  favor, 
enclosing  your  letter  to  Sir  John  Lambert — and 
the  Bills  of  lading.  1  am  sorry  that  Cunningham 
should  have  occasioned  an  alarm — and  I  agree 
with  you  that  it  will  be  better  to  postpone  the 
insurance,  till  it  is  subsided — which  will  probably 
be  the  case  soon. 

The  French  Court  will  I  believe  certainly  give 
some  orders — respecting  the  American  vessels — 
which  will  put  the  underwriters  into  spirits.  I 


[  320  ] 

had  yesterday  but  an  unpleasant  journey— and 
the  weather  still  continues  very  bad.  The  wind 
is  not  fair  at  present — should  it  change  in  our 
favour,  we  shall  certainly  sail  to-morrow  evening. 
The  vessel — I  am  told — is  a  very  good  one.  I 
shall  be  happy  of  Mr.  Fitzgerald's  company. 


From  a  friend  in  England  to  Mr.  hard. 

LONDON,  August  8th,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

Enclosed  is  a  letter  from  Colonel 
Laurens — which  Mr.  Manning  desired  might  be 
forwarded  to  you. 

We  all  desire  to  congratulate  you  on  your  safe 
arrival  at  Calais — and  hope  you  have  by  this  time 
forgot  the  disagreeableness  of  the  passage. 

Sir  Robert  Fletcher  is  dead,  and  has  left  Mr. 
Dempster  a  thousand  a  year.  This  good  fortune 
of  your  friend  will  give  you  pleasure — but  I 


[321  ] 

must  inform  you  what  a  lucky  mortal  you  are 
yourself— in  comparison  with  my  Brother  and  me. 

Would  you  believe  that  the  Deeds  must  be  sent 
to  Aix  la  Chapelle,  for  me  to  sign — before  we  can 
receive  our  money?  Mr.  Field  says  they  are 
come  too  late  for  this  term — that  the  Court  of 
Chancery  is  broke  up,  and  will  not  meet  till  No 
vember.  I  would  not  trouble  you  with  this  ac 
count,  but  to  give  you  comfort — and  to  make  you 
bless  your  stars,  at  being  such  a  favorite  of  the 
blind  Goddess. 

I  have  not  read  a  newspaper  since  you  went — 
and  of  course  am  not  in  the  secrets  of  the  Political 
world. 

Pray  remember  us  all  to  Mrs.  Izard — and  let 
her  know  that  as  she  sometimes  condescends  to 
act  as  your  Secretary,  I  hope  she  will  do  so  on 
this  occasion — and  send  us  word  what  sort  of  a 
journey  you  had  to  Paris — and  how  George  in 
particular  likes  the  French — and  the  French  roads. 
I  am  yours. 


[  322] 

From  John  Lloyd,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

NANTES,  August  11,1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  have  this  moment  received  your 
letter  from  Rouen — but  as  Mr.  Lesterget  (who  is 
just  arrived  from  Charlestown)  the  bearer  of  this, 
sets  off  immediately,  I  have  scarce  more  time  than 
to  acknowledge  it.  We  have  had  six  sail  lately 
here  from  Carolina — by  which  I  have  had  the  satis 
faction  to  receive  several  letters  from  my  friends — 
their  contents  I  shall  communicate  to  you  at  Paris, 
where  I  hope  to  have  the  pleasure  of  seeing  you 
in  the  course  of  a  fortnight — and  will  then  acquaint 
you  with  my  plan  and  determination.  Having  oc 
casion  to  correspond  with  Mr.  Deane  upon  some 
consequential  business — and  as  I  am  a  stranger  to 
him — I  took  the  liberty  to  refer  him  to  you  for 
some  information  respecting  me.  I  have  a  great 
deal  to  say  to  you — and  I  am  extremely  anxious 
for  the  pleasure  of  a  conversation  with  you. 

I  will  take  care  to  forward  your  letter.     There 
is  no  want  of  conveyances — either  from  here— or 


[  323  ] 

Bordeaux.  I  think  you  had  better  defer  writing 
any  more  upon  the  subject  of  the  resolution  of  the 
privy  council — until  I  see  you.  Your  letter  of  the 
llth  July  came  to  hand  in  course.  I  have  neither 
seen,  nor  heard  any  thing  of  Beresford.  We  have 
nothing  late  from  America — but  I  think  must  in 
the  course  of  a  week.  I  have  sent  you  the  Caro 
lina  papers.  Mrs.  Lloyd  joins  in  compliments  to 
Mrs.  Izard.  I  am  in  great  haste. 
Dear  Sir, 

Sincerely  yours, 

JOHN  LLOYD. 

A  letter  by  return  of  post  will  certainly  find  me 
here. 


From  Mr.  Izard  to  a  relation  in  London. 

PARIS,  August  14,  1777. 
DEAR  COUSIN  : — 

Accept  my  thanks  for  the  letter  you 
were  so  good  as  to  enclose  me,  and  for  the  intelli 
gence  of  my  friend  Dempster's  good  fortune.  I 


L  324  J 

most  sincerely  rejoice  at  it — and  believe  that  no 
body  upon  Earth  is  more  deserving  of  it.  The 
maxims  of  the  Duke  de  la  Rochefoucault  are  in 
general  founded  upon  truth.  In  some  instances 
however  he  is  mistaken — and  in  the  following  I 
am  sure  I  have  detected  him  in  an  error  : — "  Dans 
1'adversite  de  nos  amis  nous  trouvous  tonjours 
quelque  chose  qui  ne  nous  deplait  pas."*  In  gene 
ral  I  believe  the  remark  is  but  too  just ;  my  objec 
tion  is  only  against  the  word  tonjours.^  I  should 
be  glad  if  he  had  substituted  souvent^  instead  of  it. 
The  first  includes  me — and  therefore  I  formally 
enter  my  protest  against  it — and  at  the  same  time 
can  with  truth  assure  you— that  so  far  from  deri 
ving  any  comfort  from  the  unlucky  circumstance 
respecting  the  detention  of  the  money— that  I  am 
exceedingly  vexed  at  it. 

You  have,  however,  I  think,  given  the  blind 
Goddess  a  little  more  credit  than  she  deserves. 
Had  she  interested  herself  so  much  in  my  favour, 
as  to  entitle  her  to  the  handsome  things  you  have 
said  of  her — she  would  have  saved  me  many  a 
disagreeable  walk  to  the  Temple— the  trouble  of 


*  In  the  adversity  of  our  friends — we  always  find  something 
which  does  not  displease  us. 

t  Always.  t  Often, 


I  325  ] 

writing  many  a  letter,  and  many  an  unpleasant  in 
terview  with  a  man,  whom  I  always  thought  unfit 
for  the  trust  that  was  reposed  in  him.  Some  ob 
ligations  to  her  I  acknowledge  with  gratitude — but 
cannot  consent  to  have  this  added  to  the  catalogue, 
though  I  am  at  present  disposed  to  allow  her  every 
degree  of  merit,  in  consideration  of  what  she  has 
done  for  my  friend  Dempster.  A  few  more  such 
instances  of  her  discernment  will  convince  me  that 
she  is  not  so  blind,  as  some  folks  would  make  us 
believe ;  and  I  think  there  are  some  grounds  to 
suspect,  without  doing  her  any  great  injustice, 
that  the  old  English  proverb  may  be  applied  to 


From  his  relation  to  Mr.  hard. 

AUGUST  19,  1777. 
DEAR  COUSIN  : — 

I  return  you  a  great  many  thanks 
for  answering  my  letter  so  soon,  and  for  the  kind- 
29 


[  326  ] 

ness  that  dictated  it.  It  came  at  a  good  time  to 
keep  up  my  spirits,  for  I  had  just  heard  of  a  per 
son's  having  failed  in  our  debt  for  £1,100.  I  am 
however  glad  to  inform  you  that  I  shall  have  no 
occasion  for  your  obliging  offer.  * 

And  since  the  Bank  is  not  yet  broke,  perhaps  we 
may — some  time  or  other — come  into  possession 
of  the  money. 

I  agree  with  you — for  your  sake — and  that  of  a 
few  others — that  souvent  would  be  a  better  word 
than  tonjours ;  and  I  recollect  when  I  was  read 
ing  Rochefoucault's  book— that  for  the  honour  of 
human  nature,  I  wished  he  had  thought  proper — 
in  most  of  his  maxims — to  use  the  former  rather 
than  the  latter.  'Tis  true  he  sometimes  does — but 
his  experience — or  his  heart — led  him  generally  to 
the  other.  *  *  *  * 

He  says  it  is  those  on  whom  Fortune  bestows 
no  favours — who  call  her  blind — and  very  probably 
Mr.  F 's  illness  made  me  injure  her  Lady 
ship,  for  surely  she  could  see — when  she  gave  a 
thousand  pounds  a  year — to  Mr.  Dempster. 

Let  us  however  dismiss  her  when  we  talk  of 
America.  Do  things  wear  a  favourable  aspect 
with  you  ?  It  is  the  report  here,  that  Ticonderoga 
is  taken — the  garrison  made  prisoners — and  Put 
nam  wounded.  *  *  * 


[  327  J 

I  had  almost  forgot  to  tell  Mrs.  Izard,  that  I  saw 

Mr.  Temple  the  other  day — and  that  Mrs.  Temple 

is  quite  recovered.     Mrs.  Laurens  desires  to  be 

remembered — as  do  all  your  friends — to  you  both. 

I  am  your  affectionate  servant, 


From  Mr.  Izard  to  his  Relation. 

PARIS,  August  30,  1777. 

Ticonderoga  taken,  and  no  news  of 
my  Rennet !  Two  such  pieces  of  news  ought  not 
to  have  been  mentioned  in  one  letter. 

When  Philip  received  intelligence  in  one  day, 
that  his  General  had  gained  a  battle — his  horses, 
the  prize  at  the  Olympic  games— and  that  he  had  a 
son  born — he  thought  it  too  much  ;  and  prayed  the 
gods  to  counterbalance  these  great  events,  by 
some  misfortune.  I  must — I  believe — follow  his 
example ;  the  object,  however,  of  my  prayers, 
must  be  something  different. 

To  be  serious— the  taking  of  Ticonderoga  is  a 


[  328  ] 

very  disagreeable  circumstance,  and  will  probably 
produce  unhappy  consequences. 

Dr.  Franklin  has  received  a  letter  from  Ameri 
ca—which  mentions  its  having  been  evacuated  on 
the  6th  of  July. 

There  had  been  some  dissensions  in  the  Con 
gress,  about  who  should  command  there.  General 
Gates  was  first  appointed — then  General  Schuy- 
ler — and  at  last  General  Sinclair  had  the  command. 

The  New  England  Provinces — and  particularly 
the  Massachusetts  Bay — who  were  entrusted  with 
the  care  of  supplying  men — and  provisions  for  the 
defence  of  the  place— have  been  most  unaccounta 
bly  negligent — and  to  them  entirely  may  be  attri 
buted  the  loss  of  it. 

They  will  probably  be  the  greatest  sufferers  by 
it — as  it  is  likely  that  both  the  Armies  under  Howe 
— and  Burgoyne — will  carry  on  their  operations  in 
New  England. 

The  unhappy  consequences  that  I  suspect  will 
be  produced  by  this  event,  are  that  the  Savages — 
with  Burgoyne — will  do  a  great  deal  of  mischief, 
on  the  frontiers — which  will  give  such  new  life  to 
the  Savages  in  England — that  they  will  be  induced 
to  continue  the  miseries  of  war  in  America  another 
campaign — which  I  am  persuaded  they  would  not 


[  329  ] 

have  ventured  to  do— if  Burgoyne  could  have  been 
checked  at  Ticonderoga. 

All  will  yet  be  well — notwithstanding  this  un 
lucky  circumstance.  Our  success  has  been  won 
derful — and  totally  unparalleled  in  the  History  of 
the  world.  We  must  not  be  unreasonable — and 
expect  it  to  be  constant— and  uninterrupted. 

I  am  glad  to  find  you  have  got  safe  upon  the 
Continent — which  information  I  received  yester 
day  from  W .  Be  so  good  as  to  thank  him 

for  his  letter — several  ivords  of  which  I  could  make 
out  tolerably  well. 

Mrs.  Izard  and  the  little  girls— join  me  in  offering 
best  regards  to  all  your  family.  I  shall  be  glad  to 

be  informed  of  Mr.  B 's  intentions  respecting 

Carolina. 

I  have   some   thoughts   of  leaving  my  family 
here — and  going  myself  in  a  little  time. 
I  am  yours,  affectionately, 

RA.  IZARD. 

Mr.  Laurens  writes  that  he  advises  me  to  send 
out  Clothes — Blankets — and  other  necessaries  for 
my  plantations  ;  and  I  am  endeavouring  to  con 
trive  the  means  of  doing  it.  I  should  be  glad  to 

know  what  Mr.  B thinks  would  be  the  proper 

quantity  of  each  article. 
29* 


[  330  ] 

*>•  •  • .. 

From  Mr.  hard  to  Claude  Crespigny,  Esq. 
PARIS,  August  31,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

Mrs.  I.  did  herself  the  pleasure  of 
informing  Mrs.  Crespigny — some  time  ago — of  our 
safe  arrival  here.  We  have  taken  very  agreeable 
apartments  in  a  pleasant  and  healthy  part  of  the 
suburbs  of  this  city.  My  family  will  continue  in 
them  some  months— but  it  is  still  uncertain  how 
long  I  shall  remain  here  myself. 

The   Commissioners   have    lately    received    a 
confirmation  of  the  evacuation  of  Ticonderoga. 
******** 

This  event  is  particularly  to  be  lamented — as 
Tyranny  began  to  pant ;  and  if  a  proper  check 
could  have  been  given  at  Ticonderoga,  she  would 
have  been  down. 

All  New  England  have  been  busied  in  Priva 
teering — the  sweets  of  which  they  experienced 
early.  Though  this  is  certainly  a  very  necessary 
part  of  the  war — yet  so  important  an  object  as 
Ticonderoga— ought  not  to  have  been  neglected. 


[  331  ] 

Dissensions  have  been  in  the  Congress — respecting 
the  command  there.  Gates  was  first  appointed — 
a  party  then  insisted  that  Schuyler  should  have 
it — and  at  last  the  command  was  given  to  General 
vSinclair.  I  was  in  hopes  that  the  Congress  had 
been  possessed  of  a  sufficient  share  of  wisdom  to 
know  that  nothing  but  unanimity  can  save  them 
from  destruction.  Their  success — hitherto — has 
been  beyond  the  most  sanguine  expectations — and 
altogether  without  example  in  the  history  of  the 
world.  They  ought  not  to  forget,  that  the  suc 
cess,  which  England  met  with—during  the  last  war 
—intoxicated  her — and  that  all  her  present  calami 
ties—may  fairly  be  deduced  from  that  cause. 

Howe  being  obliged  to  leave  the  Jerseys— is  an 
unquestionable  proof  of  the  superior  strength  of  his 
antagonist — let  his  pretence  be  what  it  will— about 
the  objects  of  the  campaign. 

I  shall  be  very  glad  to  hear  that  you  have  passed 
an  agreeable  summer  at  Margate— and  received 
benefit  from  the  sea.  Be  so  good  as  to  direct  to 
me  under  the  name  of  Mr.  Crawford — and  enclose 
the  letter  under  cover  directed  thus  : — A  Monsieur 
Monsieur  Lotsom  chez  Monsieur  Grand  Banguier, 
Rue  Monmatre— a  Paris. 

Let  me  know  your  opinion  on  the  situation  of 
affairs.  I  continue  to  think  that  America  will  sue- 


[  332  J 

ceed  in  the  contest — and  that  her  Independence 
will  be  established.  The  Ministry  here  afford 
assistance— but  it  is  done  with  a  greater  degree  of 
caution— than  I  expected  to  have  found.  They  see 
clearly  the  advantages  that  they  will  derive  from 
the  separation  of  the  two  Countries — but  they  are 
infinitely  solicitous  to  avoid  a  War  themselves. 
Maurepas— and  Neckar— are  both  old.  The  former 
is  the  sole  director  of  every  thing — though  the  lat 
ter  has  considerable  xveight  with  the  King.  Our 
compliments  to  Mrs.  Crespigny. 

I  am,  with  great  regard. 


From  a  friend  in  England  to  Mr.  hard. 

September  1,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  should  long  since  have  done  my 
self  the  pleasure  of  acknowledging  the  receipt  of 
your  favor,  from  Shoreham,  and  congratulated 
you  and  Mrs.  Izard,  on  your  safe  arrival  at  Paris. 


[  333  ] 

But  I  have  every  Post — for  some  time  past — been 
in  expectation  of  hearing  from  my  friend,  how  to 
address  my  letters  to  you.  In  this  I  have  been 
disappointed — as  almost  all  my  letters  have  been 
interrupted.  I  will,  however  run  the  risk  of  this 
reaching  you. 

By  the  last  mail,  I  forwarded  to  Mrs.  Izard,  (in 
closed  to  Monsieur  Grand)  a  letter  from  New 
York.  I  hope  it  informed  you  that  her  Mother- 
Brothers— and  your  little  Boy— were  perfectly  well. 

The  Ticonderoga  news — at  first— much  alarmed 
your  countrymen — and  what  greatly  increased 
their  chagrin — were  the  tumultuous  rejoicings  of 
all  ranks  of  People.  Nothing,  indeed,  is  yet  to  be 
heard  in  Publick  places — but  the  Gallantry  of  Bur- 
goyne---and  his  little  army — and  the  matchless  cow 
ardice  of  the  Americans  !  "  We  are  now  sure  of 
the  entire  conquest  of  the  Confederated  Provinces. 
They  will  be  at  our  all-conquering  Foot—before 
Christmas.  Burgoyne  is  our  Hero—in  fact,  our 
Caesar.  We  are  at  a  loss  whether  most  to  admire 
—his  Sword — or  his  Pen.  We  give  him  Cassar's 
Motto — Veni  Vidi  Vici.  The  Americans  fly  be 
fore  him.  They  dare  not  stand  before  the  close 
compacted  Britons."  You  are  really  happy  to  be 
out  of  this  city — at  present.  For  the  taunts  and 
the  jeers  of  this  people— are  insufferable.  *  * 


[  334  ] 

Pray  where  have  you  fixed  Mrs.  Izard,  and 
your  family.  Do  you  stay  at  Paris,  or  do  you  go 
to  St.  Germains  ?  I  hope  you  will  excuse  my  not 
giving  you  a  circumstantial  detail  of  News — as  I 
do  assure  you  it  is  out  of  my  power — and  I  should 
suppose  it  wholly  unnecessary— as  I  am  persuaded 
my  friend  the  Doctor — to  whom  I  write  regularly 
twice  a  week — will  cheerfully  impart  my  commu 
nications  to  you.  When  you  are  so  obliging  as  to 
favor  me  with  a  letter—pray  write  to  me  under 
the  address  of  David  Wister,  Esq.,  at  No.  7,  New 
man  street,  and  inclose  it  to  Monsieur  Monsieur 
Stables,  Diepe.  You  need  not  give  yourself  the 
trouble  of  writing  a  single  word  to  Monsieur  Sta 
bles.  Will  you  be  so  good  as  to  present  my  best 
Respects  to  Mrs.  Izard— and  assure  her  I  shall  be 
very  happy  if  I  can  render  her  any  services,  while 

I  stay  here.    My  compliments  to  the  young  ladies. 

******** 

Adieu. 
I  am,  with  sincere  esteem,  dear  sir, 

Your  faithful  and  most  ob't.  serv't. 
You  can  easily  assign  a  reason  why  I  borrow 
the  pen  of  another— and   of  course,    I  trust,  ex 
cuse  it. 


[  335  ] 

From  John  Lloyd  Esq.,  to  Mr.  hard. 

NANTES,  Sept.  6,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  sincerely  lament  with  you  the  loss 
of  Ticonderoga — which  I  am  confident  was  owing 
entirely  to  the  shameful  neglect  of  that  important 
post — by  the  New-England  States — who  may 
probably  have  more  cause  to  repent  of  it  than  any 
of  the  others. 

The  day  after  this  news  was  received  from  Lon 
don,  I  was  in  some  degree  relieved  from  the  dis 
tress  which  it  occasioned,  by  the  arrival  of  two 
Vessels  from  Virginia,  which  sailed  from  thence 
the  5th  ultimo. 

A  gentleman  who  came  passenger  in  one  of 
them — and  who  in  every  respect  merits  credibility 
— assures  us  with  confidence  that  a  day  or  two  be 
fore  he  sailed,  they  had  certain  information  by  ex 
press  from  Philadelphia,  that  a  Major  was  arrived 
at  General  Washington's  head  quarters  from  Fort 
Edward,  with  an  account  of  an  action  that  hap 
pened  on  the  17th  July— near  that  Post — wherein 
Burgoyne  lost  upwards  of  one  thousand  men — 


[  336  ] 

killed — wounded — and  taken — and  was  compelled 
to  retreat  to  Ticonderoga — and  that  the  Americans 
had  destroyed  between  five  and  six  hundred 
Bateaux.  If  this  should  be  true  (of  which  I  have 
at  present  but  little  doubt,)  it  is  a  glorious  affair, 
and  I  think  will  terminate  the  principal  business  of 
this  campaign  in  that  quarter. 

I  shall  not  say  any  thing  farther  upon  this  sub 
ject—or  enter  into  a  detail  of  other  intelligence 
that  he  brings — as  he  sets  off  for  Paris,  early  on 
Tuesday  morning — where  you  no  doubt  will  have 
the  pleasure  of  seeing  him — and  also  the  newspa 
pers,  which  he  has  brought  to  the  1st  August. 

From  General  St.  Glair's  letter  to  Congress — pub 
lished  by  their  authority — I  think  his  evacuating 
the  Fort,  is  not  only  justifiable — but  commendable. 

I  shall  leave  this  City  to-morrow  afternoon  with 
Mrs.  Lloyd,  Messrs.  Brown,  Russell,  and  Smith 
— as  we  propose  to  go  by  the  way  of  Orleans — 
and  shall  not  travel  fast — we  may  probably  be 
near  a  week  on  our  journey. 

As  at  this  season,  I  do  not  suppose  there  can  be 
the  least  difficulty  in  procuring  apartments — I 
think  it  unnecessary  to  request  you  to  take  any  be. 
fore  we  arrive.  I  wish  to  be  as  near  you  as  pos 
sible — but  at  the  same  time,  I  must  observe,  it  is 
my  plan  to  be  upon  the  most  frugal  system,  during 
my  stay  in  Paris. 


[  337  ] 

The  reputed  extravagance  of  the  place — and  the 
impositions  to  which  strangers  are  exposed— make 
me  almost  dread  the  thought  of  going  there — but 
be  assured  I  shall  go,  with  infinitely  more  plea 
sure,  as  you  are  there — having  confidence  in  your 
ad  vice — assistance — and  protection. 

Being  exceedingly  hurried  in  preparing  for  my 
departure,  I  cannot  possibly  give  satisfactory  re 
plies  to  your  several  queries — as  I  have  not  time 
for  the  purpose — nor  do  I  think  it  material — as  I 
shall  have  the  pleasure  of  seeing  you  so  very  soon 
--when  the  communication  will  be  fer  preferable — 
than  by  lettter. 

Your  friends  here  are  well,  and  join  in  compli 
ments  with  Mrs.  Lloyd — to  Mrs.  Izard  and  your 
self.  You  will  accept  the  unfeigned  assurances  of 
regard  from, 

Dear  sir, 

Yours,  sincerely, 

JOHN  LLOYD. 
30 


[  338  ] 

From  Thomas  Digges,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

WORCESTER,  Sept.  8,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  :— 

I  did  not  mean  to  write  to  you  until 
I  had  received  a  line  to  inform  me  in  what  part  of 
France  you  had  fixed  your  temporary  residence — 
and  given  me  a  direction  how  to  address  you — 
which  was  promised  me  in  your  last  letter — but  a 
friend  of  mine,  Mr.  Matthew  Ridley,  formerly  of 
Maryland,  and  now  a  merchant  in  London — being 
about  to  take  a  trip  to  Paris,  (where  he  will  be  an 
utter  stranger)  I  cannot  but  ask  you  how  you  do — 
nor  deny  him  the  pleasure  of  your  acquaintance— 
by  withholding  this  introductory  note. 

It  is  uncertain  that  Mr.  Ridley  will  meet  you  in 
Paris — but  should  he  do  it — I  am  to  beg  the  favour 
of  your  assistance,  and  advice  to  him. 

He  will  naturally  want  to  speak  to  our  Ameri 
can  friends,  in  Paris — which  may  be  denied  him — 
from  a  want  of  knowledge  of  his  worth — and  the 
cast  of  his  Politics — both  of  which,  stand  in  the 
highest  estimation  with  me — and  I  should  be  very 


[  339  ] 

thankful,  you  could  gratify  him— should  he  apply 
for  assistance  on  this  head. 

When  Mr.  Ridley  returns — I  should  be  glad  of 
a  few  lines  by  him — acquainting  me  how  to  write 
to  you,  &c.  Should  you  have  occasion  to  com 
mand  me — I  hope  you  will  freely  do  it.  Your  usual 
direction  to  Bath,  would  I  think  be  a  very  safe 
one. 

I  write  to  A.  L.  by  this  opportunity,  in  answer 
to  a  letter  lately  received  from  him.  My  best 
wishes  attend  you  and  yours — and  I  hope  you  will 
ever  look  upon  me  as 

Your  very  affectionate  friend, 

And  obedient  servant, 

T.  DlGGES. 


From  M.  de  Beaumarchais  to  Mr.  hard. 

PARIS,  ce  10  7bre,  1777. 

J'  ai  Thonneur  de  vous  prevenu  Monsieur  que 
J'ai  commande  suivant  la  note  que  vous  m'  avez 
remise,  500  couvertures.  Elles  auront  6  pieds* 

*  The  French  foot  is  longer  than  the  English. 


L  340  ] 

£  de  long,  sur  4  pieds  %  de  large.  Un  de  mes 
amis,  m'  a  promis  aussi  de  me  fournir  3000  aulnes 
de  drap  Negre — et  je  vous  apprens  avec  plaisir 
que  le  tout  partira  vers  the  i  5  d'  8bre. 

Aucun  veritable  ami  des  Americans  ne  rencon- 
trera  ni  difficulte,  ni  meme  de  tiedeur  en  moi. 

Je  vous  fais  tenir  cet  avis,  par  M.  de  Franey, 
mon  Supercargue,  et  procureur  de  mes  interest  en 
Amerique.  Vous  juges  a  la  nature  de  Pemploi, 
dout  je  le  charge,  que  c'est  un  homme  sur.  Si  vous 
desire  envoyer  quelque  papier  important  a  vos 
amis  d'  Amerique,  II  s'en  chargera,  et  les  remettra 
fidelement. 

J'ai  1'honneur  d'etre  aves  le  plus 

haute  consideration  Monsieur, 
Votre  tres  humble  et 

tres  obiessant  serveteur, 
CARON  DE  BEAUMARCHAIS. 
Mr.  IZARD. 

(Translation  at  the  end  of  the  Volume.) 


L  341  ] 

From  Mr.  hard  to  M.  de  Beaumarchais. 

PARIS,  September  10,  1777. 
SIR  :— 

I  am  favored  this  morning  with  your 
Letter,  informing  me  that  500  Blankets,  and  3000 
ells  of  Negro  Cloth  would  be  ready  to  be  sent  for 
me  to  America  by  the  15th  of  next  month. 

I  am  much  obliged  to  you  for  this  information, 
and  for  the  readiness  which  you  have  expressed 
in  undertaking  this  business  for  me, 

.  The  friends  of  America  are  very  happy,  in  hav 
ing  a  gentleman  so  capable — and  so  willing  to  ren 
der  them  service — and  I  dare  say  they  will  be  sen 
sible  of  it. 

As  Mr.  Franey  was  so  good  as  to  offer  to  carry 
any  letters  for  me — I  have  taken  'the  liberty  of 
sending  him  some — and  I  hope  he  will  excuse  the 
trouble  that  I  give  him. 

I  heartily  wish  him  a  safe  and  agreeable  pas 
sage — and  hope  that  he  will  execute  the  business 
30* 


[  342  J 

he  is  going  upon — both  to  your  satisfaction  and 
his.  , 

I  have  the  honour  to  be,  sir, 

Your  most  obed't.  humble  serv't., 

RD.  IZARD. 


From  Claude  Crespigny,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 
MARGATE,  September  10,  1777. 
MY  DEAR  SIR  : — 

It  gave  us  very  sincere  pleasure  to 
hear  that  you,  and  your  family  were  safe  and  well 
at  Paris.  I  received  your  favour  of  the  31st  July 
yesterday.  Mrs.  I.'s  letter  to  Mrs.  C. — though 
dated  the  17th — having  been  sent  by  mistake  of 
my  banker  to  Bath — and  afterwards  unaccounta 
bly  travelling  about — was  received  but  a  few  days 
ago.  And  I  am  desired  to  say,  it  shall  be  answer 
ed  in  a  few  days  hence. 

The  sea  bathing  as  usual  agrees  wonderfully 
well  with  Mrs.  C.,  and  I  am  very  well  without 


[  343  ] 

bathing.  My  son,  too,  was  in  good  health  a  few 
days  ago,  at  Eton — where  he  finds  himself  very 
happy. 

I  am  sorry  that  you  will  be  under  the  necessity 
of  leaving  your  family — but  hope  the  time  will  soon 
come — when  you  will  meet  them  again— in  peace 
and  happiness. 

Your  letter  is  not  of  the  most  encouraging  na 
ture — but  I  do  assure  you — your  friends  here  do 
not  seem  cast  down — nor  your  enemies  greatly 
elated.  Though  we  have  known  of  Burgoyne's 
success  in  Canada — at  least  a  fortnight — Stocks 
have  risen  only  one-half  or  one  per  cent,  till  within 
these  two  or  three  days.  Now  they  are  got  up  a 
little  more — and  I  am  told — not  because  of  the 
successes  in  America — but  on  account  of  the  pa- 
cifick  disposition  of  our  European  Neighbours. 

It  seems  to  be  pretty  generally  expected,  that 
Howe  will  be  at  Philadelphia — and  Burgoyne  at 
Albany — but  no  one  seems  to  hope  that — that  will 
finish  the  War  this  Campaign.  And  I  meet  with 
many  country  gentlemen — who  have  hitherto  sup 
ported  the  Minister  in  Parliament — but  now  de 
clare  that  they  will — at  all  events — be  against  try 
ing  another  Campaign. 

If  you  have  dissensions  in  the  Congress — as  you 
seem  to  intimate — they  must  prove  fatal  to  the 


t  344  ] 

Cause— and  I  am  still  of  the  opinion  that  nothing 
else  can. 

It  is  certainly  in  the  power  of  France  to  decide 
the  business  at  once— and  I  do  not  understand  the 
policy  of  their  not  doing  it.  I  wish  I  could  flatter 
myself  that  we  were  likely  to  profit  by  their  tardi 
ness  -and  before  it  was  too  late  for  reconciliation 
—shake  hands  upon  the  best  terms  we  could.  If 
once  the  King  of  France  takes  an  open  part — I 
shall  then  think  us  separated  for  ever. 

I  shall  hope  to  hear  from  you  again  soon- -and 
most  heartily  wish  you  may  have  cause  to  write  in 
better  spirits. 

I  shall  be  at  Camberwell  again  on  the  19th  or 
20th— and  about  the  2d  or  3d  October  shall  return 
to  Bath.  I  think  you  had  better  direct  to  me  un 
der  cover  to  Messrs.  Morshouse  and  Co.,  Lombard 
street— as  they  always  know  where  I  am. 

Our  best  regards  and  wishes  attend  you  all. 
I  am,  dear  sir, 

Very  heartily,  yours. 

I  am  told  that  old  Moses  (Dr.  F.)  writes  to  his 
friends  that  all  things  go  on  to  his  wishes — and  yet 
as  you  must  often  see  him — and  do  not  confirm  this 
doctrine— I  doubt  the  truth  of  it. 


[  345  ] 

From  Mr.  hard  to  a  friend  at  Aix-la-Chapelle. 
PARIS,  September  26,  1777. 

It  is  very  extraordinary  that  nothing  authentic 
should  have  arrived,  since  the  taking  of  Ticonde- 
roga.  There  is  indeed  a  gentleman  here — who 
left  Virginia  the  4th  August — and  says  it  was  re 
ported  there—and  believed— that  on  the  17th  July, 
one  of  the  divisions  of  Burgoyne's  Army  had  been 
defeated— with  considerable  loss — and  that  be 
tween  five  and  six  hundred  of  his  Bateaux  had 
been  burnt.  Reports  of  battles  are  seldom  to  be 
credited  in  their  utmost  extent—but  I  fully  believe 
that  something  very  disagreeable  has  happened  to 
Mr.  Burgoyne.*  If  he  has  only  been  checked — it 
will  answer  our  purpose.  He  cannot  be  reinforced 
— but  our  Army  will  be  so  considerably. 

Nobody  knows  any  thing  about  the  Howes — 
their  destination  is  as  little  known  in  London  as  in 
Paris.  Lord  Stormont,  I  hear,  reports  that  they 
are  gone  to  Philadelphia.  Many  people  are  of  the 

*  He  no  doubt  soon  after  was  of  the  same  opinion! 


[  346  ] 

same  opinion— but  I  believe  we  shall  soon  hear  of 
their  being  in  some  part  of  New  England. 

If  they  land  there-  they  will  for  a  few  weeks 
furnish  entertainment  to  our  enemies — through  the 
channel  of  the  Gazette—as  they  will  for  some  time 
—have  nothing  but  the  Militia  to  contend  with. 

The  Country  through  which  you  have  passed 
you  say,  puts  you  in  mind  of  America.  It  is  a  very 
agreeable  circumstance  to  think  of— that  Flanders, 
which  has  so  often  been  the  Theatre  of  war — 
should  be  so  well  recovered  as  to  be  one  of  the 
most  delightful—and  one  of  the  best  cultivated 
Countries  in  the  world. 

The  resemblance  between  the  two  Countries 
will,  I  hope,  in  this  last  instance,  be  complete. 

When  I  received  your  last  letter— I  was  deter 
mined  to  go  to  America— and  leave  my  family 
here.  The  only  question  was— whether  I  should 
go  immediately—or  wait  for  the  event  of  certain 
alterations  in  my  family— which  I  am  told  will 
probably  take  place  in  November. 

The  Congress  have  resolved  that  neither  of  my 
plans  shall  be  executed— by  doing  me  the  honour 
of  appointing  me— one  of  their  Commissioners  in 
this  part  of  the  world. 

The  department  they  have  allotted  me— is  Tus 
cany.  I  shall  go  to  Florence,  as  soon  as  I  under- 


[347] 

stand  that  anybody  from  America— in  a  public 
character— will  be  admitted  there— which,  at  pre 
sent—will  certainly  not  be  the  case. 

I  feel  a  certain  degree  of  diffidence  upon  this 
occasion— but  derive  comfort  from  the  Chancellor 
Oxenstern-  prime  Minister  to  Gustavus  Adolphus. 
His  son— without  having  much  experience  in  pub 
lic  affairs — was  sent  Embassador  from  the  King 
of  Sweden,  to  the  Hague. 

He  was  alarmed  at  the  importance  of  the  trust 
— committed  to  him — and  at  the  able  negotiators 
with  whom  he  was  to  contend  ; — He  expressed  his 
fears  in  a  letter  to  his  Father— and  received  this 
answer: — "My  Son,  you  do  not  know  how  little 
wisdom,  is  to  be  found  among  those  who  under 
take  to  conduct  the  affairs  of  the  world."  If  the 
Chancellor  were  alive  now— a  review  of  the  con 
duct  of  those  persons — who  have  undertaken  to 
direct  the  affairs  of  two  great  Kingdoms — not 
above  seven  leagues  from  each  other — would  ra 
ther  tend  to  confirm — than  alter  his  opinion. 


[  348  ] 

From  Mr.  hard  to  Henry  Laurens,  Esq. 

PARIS,  October  6,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

Since  my  letter  of  the  16th  July — 
a  copy  of  which  accompanies  this — I  have  been 
favoured  with  yours  of  9th  June,  from  Goose- 
Creek, 

Several  other  copies  have  been  sent — in  hopes 
that  one  might  get  to  your  hands.  Of  this,  I  shall 
be  glad  to  be  informed — as  it  is  a  matter  of  no 
small  importance  to  me — to  be  possessed  of  the 
good  opinion  of  those  whom  I  esteem. 

I  left  England,  the  1st  August — which  was  as 
soon  as  I  could — without  great  inconvenience  to 
myself.  It  was  my  intention  to  have  done  it 
sooner — but  it  was  necessary  that  I  should  per 
sonally  receive  a  considerable  sum  of  money  due 
me  from  my  Uncle's  Estate. 

This  business  has  been  several  years  in  the 
hands  of  Lawyers.  It  was,  at  length,  ordered 
by  the  Chancellor,  to  be  paid  into  the  Bank,  for 
my  use — and  there  I  thought  my  trouble  would 


[  349  ] 

have  ended ; — but  I  was  mistaken — for,  by  the 
folly — and  criminal  negligence  of  my  Attorney — I 
had  still  to  experience,  a  delay,  of  several  months. 

Had  I  left  England  without  receiving  the 
money— I  am  sure  it  never  would  have  been  paid  : 
for  my  Lawyer  was  like  the  Judge  in  Scripture — 
he  did  me  justice — not  for  righteousness  sake— but 
on  account  of  my  importunity. 

When  I  left  England,  I  was  determined  to  go 
to  America — as  soon  as  my  Wife's  situation  would 
allow  me  either  to  carry  her  with  me — or  to  leave 
her  here.  Your  letter  of  the  9th  June — which  I 
received  since  my  arrival  here — confirmed  rne  in 
this  determination.  You  say — "  the  voice  is  much 
against  me  for  neglecting  the  public  call."  I  hope 
you  are  convinced  that  this  has  been  a  miscon 
ception.  I  never  have  neglected  the  public  call — 
and  as  I  am  of  opinion — that  the  Public  has  a 
right  to  the  services  of  every  individual  belong 
ing  to  the  State — I  think  I  may  truly  say— that  I 
never  will  neglect  the  Public  call. 

Upon  your  arrival  in  Philadelphia— you  will 
have  been  informed  that  Congress  has  done  me 
the  honour  to  employ  me,  in  this  part  of  the 
world.  This  is  agreeable  to  me,  for  several  rea 
sons — and  has  relieved  me  from  very  considera 
ble  embarrassment. 

31 


[  350  ] 

It  will  not  be  difficult  for  any  Man — possessed 
of  the  smallest  degree  of  humanity — to  be  sensible 
how  distressing  it  must  have  been  for  a  person — 
circumstanced  as  my  family  is — to  have  gone  to 
America,  in  the  present  state  of  affairs — either 
with  them — or  without  them  ; — this,  however, 
would  have  been  the  case — as  I  was  determined 
to  have  submitted  to  any  inconvenience — and  dis 
tress — rather  than  that  so  odious — and  false  an 
opinion  as  that  of  having  neglected  my  duty  to 
the  public  should  be  established. 

I  flatter  myself,  I  may  be  of  more  service  here 
—than  I  could  be  in  America.  A  very  advanta 
geous  connexion  may  unquestionably  be  formed, 
between  us — and  the  commercial  parts  of  Italy. 
It  is  very  much  their  interest  to  promote  the  suc 
cess  of  our  cause. 

The  King  of  Naples — and  the  Pope — I  know 
are  both  exceedingly  alarmed,  in  time  of  war — 
whenever  an  English  Squadron  is  in  the  Mediter 
ranean — one  for  his  Capital — and  the  other  for 
Civita  Vecchia.  They  would,  therefore,  wish 
this  formidable  Naval  Power  to  be  a  little  hum 
bled — and  possibly — if  they  could  be  persuaded 
to  think  that  lending  a  few  Sequins  would  con 
tribute  to  such  an  event — a  Loan  might  be  nego 
tiated. 


L  351  ] 

I  have  written  to  the  Committee  of  Foreign 
Affairs,  on  this  subject — and  if  the  proposition 
meets  with  your  approbation — and  that  of  your 
Colleagues,  from  Charlestown — I  hope  it  will  have 
your  support. 

It  gives  me  a  great  deal  of  uneasiness — that  you 
should  have  had  so  much  trouble  in  the  manage 
ment  of  my  affairs — and  the  more  so — as  I  do  not 
see  any  immediate  prospect  of  your  being  re 
lieved  from  it. 

Mr.  Blake,  who  is  joined  with  you  in  the  pow 
er  of  Attorney — has.  indeed,  repeatedly  assured 
me — that  he  should  go  over  this  Fall — and  afford 
you  every  assistance  in  his  power.  I  believe  he 
continues  to  hold  his  resolution,  of  going — but  he 
is  still  at  Aix-la-Chapelle. 

Mr.  John  Lloyd,  has  likewise  consented  to  take 
the  trouble  of  being  one  of  my  Attornies — if  he 
goes  to  Carolina — which,  he  says,  is  his  present 
intention.  Should  he  go,  (of  which  I  have  some 
doubt,)  his  charging  himself  with  this  troublesome 
business  of  mine — will  afford  me  much  satisfac 
tion — as  I  have  the  greatest  opinion  of  his  ability, 
and  integrity — and  of  his  friendly  disposition  to 
wards  me ; — and  I  am  very  happy  in  knowing 
from  the  best  authority — that  you  think  of  him — 
not  less  favorably  than  I  do. 


[  352] 

I  was  in  hopes  that  a  sufficient  quantity  of 
Blankets — and  Negro  Cloth — might  have  been 
procured  for  me  in  Charlestown. 

^he  price  must  be  high—but  it  would  have 
suL  me  much  better  --to  have  purchased  those 
articles  in  Carolina — if  they  could  be  had  there 
at  any  price.  Perhaps  Mr.  Owen  may  have  been 
able  to  do  so ; — but  as  you  think  I  ought  to  en 
deavour  to  send  them  from  hence — I  have  made 
an  engagement  with  a  merchant  here — to  ship  for 
me  five  hundred  Blankets — with  four  thousand 
Ells  of  cloth — which  is  dearer,  and  not  so  good — 
as  we  used  to  have  from  England. 

This  will  be  consigned  to  Mr.  John  Owen — but 
as  it  is  very  uncertain — whether  it  will  get  safe  or 
no — 1  hope  he  will  have  contrived  to  make  suffi 
cient  provision  of  these  articles  upon  the  spot. 
Should  this  be  the  case — and  my  supply  also  get 
safe  to  hand — you  will  order  it  to  be  laid  by  for 
next  year — or  sold,  as  you  think  proper. 

I  have  engaged  to  pay  for  it — as  soon  as  I  can — 
and,  therefore,  should  be  glad  to  have  some  Rice — 
shipped  to  me  for  that  purpose — which,  I  believe, 
will  answer  better — if  freight  can  be  procured  on 
tolerable  terms — than  Indigo — at  the  exorbitant 
price  it  sold  for  in  Charlestown,  last  year. 

I  must  beg  the  favour  of  you — to  take  care — 


L  353  ] 

that  the  proceedings  of  Congress — be  transmitted 
to  me — by  every  opportunity — and,  likewise,  the 
state  of  affairs  in  general. 

This,  I  mention,  because  the  Commissioners 
here — have  sometimes  been  several  months  *~  :h- 
out  knowing  what  was  transacting  in  America. 
This,  you  must  be  sensible — cannot  fail  of  lower 
ing  them — not  only  in  the  estimation  of  the  Pub 
lic — but  likewise  of  the  Court. 

This  may  have  its  bad  consequences — and 
ought,  if  possible,  to  be  prevented. 

There  is  another  thing  respecting  the  Public— 
which  I  have  to  recommend  to  you— and  I  do  it, 
because  I  think  your  opinion  will  have  weight 
whenever  it  is  given.  It  is  that  the  Committee  for 
Foreign  Affairs,  would  agree  upon  a  Cypher,  and 
correspond  in  it  always.  So  many  ships  have  been 
carried  into  England,  either  as  prizes,  or  by  the 
Villainy  of  the  crews — having  public  despatches  on 
board— that  I  believe  the  British  Ministry— have 
been  better  informed  of  our  affairs— from  authori 
ty—than  the  Commissioners  themselves. 

I  have  taken  every  necessary  step,  to  inform  my 
self,  when  I  may  with  propriety,  set  out  for  the 
Court  that  I  have  the  honour  of  being  appointed 
to.  There  are  some  political  reasons,  why  that 
cannot  be  done  immediately. 
31* 


[  354  ] 

You  will  be  so  good  as  to  address  your  letters 
for  me — to  the  care  of  Dr.  Franklin — or  whatever 
Commissioner  may  be  resident  at  the  Court  of 
France — which  I  believe  will  be  the  safest  channel 
to  me — wherever  I  may  be. 

Mrs.  Izard  desires  her  compliments  to  you — and 
I  beg  that  you  will  be  so  good  as  to  present  mine 
to  our  Countrymen  from  Charlestown. 

I  am,  dear  sir,  with  great  regard, 
Your  friend  and  humble  servant, 

RA.  IZARD. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  Robert  Morris,  Esq.,  Chairman 
of  the  Committee  for  Foreign  Affairs. 

PARIS,  October  6,  1777. 
SIR:— 

I  had  the  honour  of  receiving  by  the  In 
dependence,  Captain  Younge,  a  Commission,  and 
Instructions  from  Congress — the  objects  of  which 
I  shall  use  my  utmost  endeavours  to  accomplish. 
The  Powers  of  Europe  seem  to  be  waiting  for 


[  355  ] 

the  determination  of  the  Court  of  Versailles,  re 
specting  the  acknowledgment  of  the  Independence 
of  America. 

As  soon  as  she  sets  the  example,  it  will  I  believe 
be  followed,  by  all  those,  whose  interest  makes 
them  wish  for  a  diminution  of  the  power  of  Eng 
land.  In  this  description,  may  be  comprehended 
every  State,  that  can  be  of  any  service  to  us. 

It  is  very  much  the  interest  of  most  of  the  pow 
ers  of  Italy— that  the  strength  of  the  British  Navy 
should  be  lessened.  Some  of  their  Ports— particu 
larly  those  of  Naples,  and  Civitta  Vecchia— have 
been  frequently  insulted— and  all  of  them  are  liable 
to  be  so — by  a  Nation,  not  remarkable  for  its  mo 
deration. 

I  think  therefore— that  they  must  be  disposed  to 
afford  assistance  to  the  States  of  America— pri 
vately— either  by  subsidy,  or  loan.  Congress  will 
be  pleased  to  honor  me  with  their  Instructions  on 
this  point ;  and  in  the  mean  time,  I  shall  endeavour 
to  procure  every  information  on  the  subject  in  my 
power.  Should  the  proposition  be  approved  of— 
they  will  furnish  me  with  proper  powers.  If  I 
should  be  so  fortunate  as  to  succeed  in  procuring 
money— I  should  be  glad  to  know  how  it  should  be 
disposed  of— whether  in  the  purchase  of  such  arti 
cles,  as  are  wanted,  or  remitted  in  specie. 


[  356  ] 

I  hope  to  be  frequently  favored  with  the  pro 
ceedings  of  Congress— and  with  the  state  of  affairs 
in  America— which  will  be  of  importance  to  me--- 
and  cannot  fail  of  giving  weight  to  the  appoint 
ment,  they  have  honored  me  with. 

I  am,  sir, 
&c.  &c. 

RA.  IZARD. 


From  Mr.  hard  to  Wm.  Duer,  Esq. 

PARIS,  October  8,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

It  gives  me  great  pleasure  to  hear 
that  you  are  a  member  of  Congress— and  I  beg  you 
will  accept  my  congratulations  on  the  occasion. 

In  the  Courts  of  Princes,  Offices  of  the  most  im 
portant  nature,  are  frequently  bestowed  upon  the 
most  worthless—but  the  voice  of  the  public,  seldom 
calls  forth  those,  to  places  of  trust— who  are  not 
deserving  of  them. 


[  35?  ] 

I  have  been  between  two  and  three  months  in 
France— having  quitted  a  Country,  which  from  my 
infancy,  I  have  looked  upon  as  my  own — and  for 
which  I  have  had  the  most  unbounded  affection. 

If  cruel  experience  did  not  demonstrate  the  fact 
— it  could  hardly  be  credited  that  the  Ministry, 
and  Parliament,  could  have  adopted — and  with 
so  steady  and  invariable  a  step — pursued  such 
measures  as  should  make  it  absolutely  necessary, 
for  us  to  abandon  England,  and  attach  ourselves 
to  the  interests  of  France. 

It  seems  as  if  it  were  intended  to  show  to  what 
extremities  of  wickedness  and  folly,  a  set  of  human 
creatures — vested  with  great  power — and  vainly 
imagining  themselves  of  much  greater — could  ar 
rive.  I  trust,  however,  that  the  wisdom,  and  vir 
tuous  exertions  of  a  free  people,  will  humble  the 
arrogance  of  their  oppressors.  By  the  last  de 
spatches  from  America,  I  had  the  honour  of  being 
appointed  by  Congress — one  of  their  Commissioners 
in  this  part  of  the  world. 

I  am  extremely  happy  in  having  an  opportunity 
of  shewing  my  readiness  to  stand  forth  in  the  cause 
of  my  Country — which  no  man  in  the  world  has 
more  at  heart. 

I  know  not  who  your  Colleagues  are— probably 
Mr.  Duane — Mr.  Jay — and  Mr.  Lewis  Morris,  are 


[  358  ] 

among  the  number — if  so — you  will  be  so  good  as 
to  present  my  compliments  to  them. 

You  must  long  ago  have  heard  of  the  misfor 
tunes  of  Sayre  and  Cooke.  Their  creditors  will, 
I  fear,  be  considerable  sufferers. 

The  debt  of  £163  sterling,  which  you  owe  to 
their  house — has  been  made  over  to  me— by 
Messrs.  Christie  and  Bateman — the  assignees— in 
satisfaction  for  my  demand  upon  them.  It  is  proper 
you  should  know  this — at  the  same  time  it  is  with 
pleasure  that  I  assure  you,  I  have  not  the  least  ex 
pectation — or  desire  of  receiving  it  from  you — until 
it  perfectly  suits  your  convenience. 

The  approach  of  Mr.  Burgoyne  into  the  neigh 
borhood  of  Fort  Edward— cannot  be  a  very  agree 
able  circumstance  to  you. 

It  is  not  impossible  but  he  may  experience  the 
fate  of  Charles,  Duke  of  Burgundy,  whose  bones  I 
saw  about  three  years  ago— mingled  with  those  of 
his  Countrymen— upon  the  banks  of  the  lake  of  Mo- 
rat,  in  the  Canton  of  Bern.  He— as  well  as  Mr.  Bur 
goyne — had  advanced  considerably,  into  the  Coun 
try  of  a  free,  and  virtuous  people — with  the  im 
pious  design  of  overthrowing  their  liberties — but 
were  by  them  defeated,  and  slain — together  with 
the  greatest  part  of  his  Army.  A  Chapel  is  erected 
over  the  bones,  and  a  modest  inscription  records 


[  359  ] 

the  fact.     After  relating  what  Charles  had  done — 
it  concludes  thus: — Hoc  Monumentum  reliquit. 

I  have  to  request  the  favour  that  you  will,  as 
often  as  your  leisure  permits,  give  me  a  particular 
account  of  the  state  of  affairs  in  America — and  fur 
nish  me  with  the  Resolutions,  and  proceedings  of 
Congress.  *  *  * 

Mrs.  I.  desires  her  compliments  to  you. 
I  am,  dear  sir,  with  great  regard, 

Your  friend  and  humble  servant, 

RA.  IZARD. 


From  Mr.  Wistar  to  Mr.  Crawford* 

LONDON,  October  10,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  thank  you  for  your  favour  of  the 
llth  of  last  month — and  sincerely  wish  the  news 
you  were  so  good  as  to  send  me — has  proved  true. 

*  Feigned  names  were  now  used,  and  sentences  written  to  mis- 
lead  those  who  might  open  the  letters.  Mr.  Digges  took  the  name 
of  Wistar — Mr.  Izard  that  of  Crawford. 


[  360  ] 

I  am  entirely  of  opinion  with  you — that  as  soon 
as  the  Northern  Provinces — were  informed  of  the 
destination  of  Sir  William  Howe — it  is  probable, 
they  would  pour  forth  their  whole  strength — to 
reinforce  the  two  Armies  under  Schuyler— and 
Putnam. 

But  a  vast  Majority  of  the  deluded  people  of 
this  Kingdom — think  differently — and  according 
ly — all  the  funds — rise  considerably. 

They  say  this  Campaign,  will  destroy  the  re 
bellious  Faction,  in  America — and  put  an  end  to 
Washington — and  his  Army. 

The  Ministerial  tale  of  the  day  is — that  Howe 
was  to  press  him  in  front — Sir  William  Erskine 
to  march  to  Lancaster — and  destroy  his  Maga 
zines — Clinton  to  move  to  Philadelphia  through 
the  Jerseys — and  Burgoyne — who  is  represented 
as  very  near  New  York — to  Garrison  that  City — 
and  protect  its  Environs. 

And  while  these  operations  were  carrying  on — 
a  number  of  small  Men  of  War — were  to  ascend 
the  Potomack  River — seize  all  the  Tobacco  in  the 
Inspecting  Houses — burn  the  American  Vessels, 
&c. — and,  by  landing  detachments  of  Marines — in 
different  places — afford  employment,  for  such  of 
the  Militia  of  Virginia — and  Maryland — as  resi 
ded  near  the  Potomack.  In  short — we  are  not 


1361  J 

without  great  hopes— that  Lord  D's.  Black  Guards 
—may  openly  declare  for  us— and  prevent  any  as 
sistance  going  from  Virginia  to  Washington's 
Camp. 

This  is  our  present  flattering  prospect— and  we 
have  no  disagreeable  apprehensions  about  any 
power  in  Europe.  Indeed,  at  no  one  time— that  I 
can  recollect— were  we  ever  in  better  spirits. 

The  arrival  of  the  Jamaica  Fleet— and  the 
quarter  part  of  the  one  from  the  Windward  Isl 
ands—has  increased  our  happiness— and  filled  our 
Merchants— and  Underwriters— with  new  life  and 
vigour—so  much  so— that  they  would  now  under 
write  Philadelphia— at  a  very  moderate  Premium. 

We  have  no  other  account  from  America— than 
that  I  communicated  to  my  friend,  on  Tuesday 
evening— and  upon  that— have  all  our  present  de 
lusive  Prospects  been  founded. 

The  enclosed  letter  was  sent  me,  by  the  penny 
post,  to  day— but  by  whom  I  cannot  conjecture. — 
It  appears  to  me— to  have  been  opened.— Will  you 
be  so  good  as  to  send  it  to  Mr.  Izard  ?  Where 
does  he  live— in  Paris— or  St.  Germain?  Pray 
make  my  best  Compliments  to  Mrs.  Crawford. 

I  am,  Dear  Sir,  with  great  regard, 

Your  most  obedient  and  faithful  Servant, 

D.  WlSTER. 

32 


[  362  ] 

Your  Parliamentary  Register—Remembrancer, 
— and  Annual  Register— are  forwarded  to  you. 

I  fancy  you  will  not  be  much  pleased  with  the 
account  of  the  last  Campaign— as  given  in  the 
Annual  Register.  Vamp  says  it  was  drawn  by 
29.* 


From  Claude  Crespigny,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 
BATH,  October  19, 1777. 
DEAR  SIR  :— 

You  should  not  have  been  so  long, 
without  hearing  from  me— if  I  had  not—for  some 
weeks  past— been  in  daily  expectation  of  some 
news  arriving— which  might  have  afforded  me  a 
subject  worth  writing  upon. 

As  no  material  news  has  arrived— we  are  at 
present— only  amused  by  the  runners  of  Govern- 


*  Figures  were  used  to  designate  persons — if  the  Second  Vol. 
of  these  letters  is  published — the  Keys  and  Cyphers — will  appear. 


[  363  ] 

ment— with  the  accounts  of  the  great  feats  done 
by  the  K — g's  Troops— in  the  neighborhood  of 
New- York— and  the  still  greater  feats  that  will 
be  done  by  Sir  W.  H.-and  General  B.  They 
have  placed  Washington  between  their  two  Ar 
mies  -and  cut  him  to  pieces—none  have  escaped — 
except  the  very  swift  of  foot. 

The  more  moderate,  are  doubtful  whether 
Burgoyne  may  not  possibly  meet  with  some 
Check—by  one  Arnold—  and  disappoint  this  plan 

of  totally  defeating  W n  this  Campaign— and 

if  so— we  must  have  one  more  Campaign— before 
the  Rebels  are  quite  brought  to  unconditional  sub 
mission.  This  is  really  the  language  of  many — 
but  on  the  other  hand—there  are  numbers  of 
those— who  were  for  trying  this  Campaign— that 
openly  declare— they  will,  in  Parliament— oppose 
having  another. 

It  is  really  my  opinion— that  unless  H e— and 

B ne— do   much  more  than  seems  at  present 

possible— this  Country  will  not  be  for  the  continu 
ance  of  the  War- --even  for  another  year. 

I  am  well  assured— and  believe  it  may  be  de 
pended  upon- -that  about  a  month  ago— offers  were 
made  to  the  M.  of  Rockingharn— and  his  friends — 
to  come  into  power— in  the  room  of  the  whole 
B d  House  gang.  The  offers  were  not  ac- 


[  364  ] 

cepted— but  one  must  see— that  they  never  would 
have  been  made— if  there  was  a  determination  to 
pursue  the  present  measures. 

Though  our  Ministers— and  the  Publick  here — 
have  been  amused  with  the  fair  words  from  your 
side  of  the  water— I  have  no  doubt  but  our  Minis 
ters  at  least— begin  to  suspect  the  sincerity  of 
them— and  supposing  that  to  be  the  case— their 
panick  is  easily  accounted  for. 

Mrs.  — —  unites  with  me  in  most  sincere  re 
gards—and  good  wishes— to  you  and  yours.  I 
shall  hope  soon  to  hear  from  you— and  that  you 
are  all  well.  The  last  time  I  heard— was  from  a 
friend  of  ours— who  is  here— and  has  lately  had  a 
letter  from  you.  *  *  * 

We  are  at  present  in  great  confusion  here— about 
the  election  of  a  Master  of  the  Ceremonies— Mr. 
Wade  having  resigned.  This  business— is  likely 
to  produce  great  disputes  amongst  us— and  will 
for  a  time— make  the  place  very  disagreeable. 

You  must— from  time  to  time— wherever  you 
are— let  me  hear  from  you— as  you  may  be  assur 
ed—that  I  shall  ever  be  anxious  to  know  of  your 
happiness  and  welfare. 

I  am,  Dear  Sir, 
Your  Sincerely  Affectionate^  Friend, 


[  365  ] 


From  Mr.  hard  to  the  Hon.  Wm.  Drayton,  Chief 
Justice  of  East  Florida,  at  St.  Augustine. 

PARIS,  October  26,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  am  favoured  with  your  letter  of 
the  16th  July— which  informs  me  of  several  prize 
Negroes  having  been  carried  into  St.  Augustine — 
by  a  Man  of  War— and  of  your  having  purchased 
my  servant  Frank— for  £60  sterling— subject  to  a 
reclaim  of  the  money— from  the  captors— if  it 
could  be  proved — that  I  had  either  suffered  for 
my  attachment  to  the  English  Government — or 
had  resided  in  Europe  for  several  years  past ; — 
because  it  was  thought — that  neither  the  letter — 
nor  the  meaning  of  the  act — under  which  they 
were  condemned — did  extend  to  persons — in  either 
of  these  situations. 

You  desire  that  I  would  take  the  necessary 
steps  to  prove  my  property — and  support  my 
claim  in  him.  This,  I  cannot  do — as  the  Bill  of 
Sale — which  I  received  from  Mr.  Windell,  of  New 
York — his  late  master — is  left  among  my  papers 
32* 


[  366  ] 

in  Carolina— and  as  there  can  be  no  doubt  about 
his  belonging  to  me— I  hope  an  advantage  will 
not  be  taken — of  a  paper's  not  being  produced — 
when  it  is  known  to  be  impossible  that  it  should 
be  so — for  the  reason  that  I  have  given. 

It  is  likewise  out  of  my  power  to  procure  an 
order — for  his  being  restored  to  me — or  a  certifi 
cate  of  my  having  resided — for  several  years 
past — in  Europe — in  support  of  my  claim — as  I 
have  left  England  with  an  intention  of  not  return 
ing  to  it  again — until  there  is  an  end  to  the  pre 
sent  unhappy  troubles. 

These  circumstances — being  known — perhaps 
my  word  may  be  taken  on  both  points — and  there 
fore  I  do  declare  to  you  that  the  Negro  Frank,  has 
never  been  disposed  of  by  me — either  by  sale,  or 
gift — and  therefore,  if  my  having  been  absent  from 
America — ever  since  the  month  of  June,  1771, 
gives  me  any  claim  to  him — he  is  still — and  of 
right  ought  to  be — my  property. 

I  should  have  no  expectation — even  if  I  were  in 
London — of  obtaining  such  an  order  as  you  men 
tion — and  therefore  should  not  think  of  applying 
for  it. 

If  redress  is  to  be  obtained  only  upon  the  suppo 
sition  of  my  approving  of  the  measures  of  the 
Ministry — or  as  you  say — by  my  attachment  to 


[367  ] 

Government— I  can  have  no  pretensions  to  it,  as  I 
have  always  been  of  opinion— that  they  are  found 
ed  upon  wickedness  and  folly. 

The  laws  of  England,  I  believe,  do  not  injure 
any  man— for  his  opinions  only— and  as  I  have 
done  nothing,  that  I  know  of---that  will  warrant 
my  being  deprived  of  my  property— if  restitution 
is  made  of  any  of  the  negroes  that  were  taken  off 
the  Bar  of  Charlestown— I  see  no  reason  why  I 
should  be  excluded— as  I  come  clearly  within  one 
of  your  descriptions. 

I  do  not  mean  to  lay  much  stress  upon  this  mat 
ter—nor  do  I  desire  that  you  should  have  much 
trouble  about  it.  If  the  £60  can  easily  be  saved— 
it  is  certainly  a  desirable  thing  that  it  should  be  so 
— if  not,  I  shall  accept  of  the  offer  you  have  made 
—and  take  the  negro— of  you— at  the  price  you 
gave  for  him.  It  is  a  very  disinterested,  and  friendly 
proceeding  on  your  part— and  founded  upon  such 
sentiments,  as  I  should  have  expected  you  to  be 
possessed  of.  I  must,  however,  inform  you,  that 
my  funds  in  this  country  are  so  narrow — that  it 
will  not  be  convenient  for  me  to  pay  you  at  pre 
sent.  You  will  in  the  meantime,  keep  the  negro 
in  your  hands,  and  as  soon  as  it  is  in  my  power, 
you  shall  be  paid. 

It  would  make  me  very  happy,  if  I  could  in  any 


[  368  J 

respect  be  serviceable  to  your  son.  If  I  were  in 
England— I  would  make  it  my  business,  frequently 
to  see  him—and  by  that  means  probably  be  able  to 
judge  of  what  plan  would  be  best  for  him  to  pur 
sue. 

The  present  unhappy  state  of  affairs  in  Pennsyl 
vania—must  make  Philadelphia  an  improper  place 
of  Education  ;  otherwise  I  should  prefer  it,  until 
he  is  seventeen  or  eighteen  years  old,  to  any 
school  in  England. 

The  school  at  Harrow  bears  a  very  good  cha 
racter — and  I  should  think,  as  you  are  determined 
to  send  him  to  England — that  it  will  be  as  proper 
a  place  for  him — as  any — until  he  arrives  at  that 
age. 

I  do  not  think  that  the  difference  in  point  of  ex 
pense,  between  an  English,  and  a  Foreign  school, 
will  be  so  great,  as  to  make  it  of  any  importance — 
besides  it  may  be  of  service  to  him — while  he  is 
young — to  have  some  friend— near  him — to  see 
that  he  is  taken  care  of.  When  he  is  old  enough 
to  take  care  of  himself — two  or  three  years  resi 
dence  at  Geneva — will  be  of  great  service  to  him. 
If  he  is  sent  to  Cambridge — or  Oxford — he  must 
have  a  considerable  degree  of  judgment  and  dis 
cretion — if  his  time — and  money — are  not  both 
thrown  away — to  very  little  purpose. 


[  369  ] 

On  this  last  point,  you  will  have  time  enough  to 
consider,  and  inform  yourself — at  present  a  good 
school  is  wanted  for  him — and  that  I  believe  will 
certainly  be  found  at  Harrow. 

In  the  present  situation  of  affairs — it  is  uncertain 
how  long  I  shall  continue  here — or  where  I  shall 
go  next. 

I  am  very  desirous  of  being  in  America — but  I 
do  not  think  it  either  easy — or  safe — to  attempt 
going  there — with  my  wife  and  five  children. 

Whenever  you  favor  me  with  a  letter — enclose 
it  to  Messrs.  Benricke,  Merchants — in  Mencing 
Lane,  London.  By  that  means,  it  may  escape  the 
inquisitive  eyes  of  the  gentlemen  at  the  Post  Office 
— which  was  not  the  case  with  yours — which  I 
have  now  before  me. 

Mrs.  Izard  joins  me  in  offering  compliments  to 
Mrs.  Drayton. 


t  370] 

From  John  Lloyd,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

HAVRE  DE  GRACE,  October  29,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : 

I  am  much  pleased  with  my  visit 
to  Rouen — and  this  Port — having  thereby  obtained 
some  very  satisfactory  Knowledge  respecting  the 
French  Manufactories — and  which  has  induced  me 
to  wish  that  we  could  have  succeeded  in  our  ne 
gotiation — as  the  investment  might  have  been  made 
— with  greater  facility— than  I  thought-— and  in  the 
desirable  articles. 

I  have  not  been  unmindful  of  my  promise  rela 
tive  to  an  enquiry  after  vessels  for  you ;  in  conse 
quence,  some  have  been  offered — but  as  the  terms 
have  been  attended  with  a  requisition  for  an  ad 
vance  of  a  considerable  part  of  the  freight-previ 
ous  to  departure— I  have  not  entered  into  any  en 
gagement — as  I  think  the  demand  unreasonable-— 
and  disadvantageous. 

To  stimulate  my  friend  Monsieur  Andrew  Limo- 
zen  to  continue  his  application— I  have  told  him— 
that  if  he  could  procure  you — two  suitable  vessels, 


[371  ] 

upon  satisfactory  conditions,  that  you  would  con 
sent  for  them  to  return  to  this  Port,  to  his  address, 
which  I  am  confident  will  increase  his  attention, 
as  he  is  the  entire  man  of  business--!  think  the 
most  so  of  any  merchant  I  have  yet  met  with  in 
France.  I  shall  leave  him  your  address,  that  he 
may  be  enabled  to  correspond  with  you,  if  there 
should  be  occasion  for  it. 

The  hopes  of  being  able  to  render  you  some 
service,  have  induced  me  to  stay  here  longer  than 
I  intended.  I  shall  set  off  to-morrow  for  Nantes. 
The  roads  begin  to  be  bad— which  I  am  afraid 
will  retard  my  journey. 

I  am  surprised  that  we  have  not  yet  any  certain 
accounts  of  the  Howes. 

There  is  nothing  new  at  this  place. 

Mrs.  Lloyd  joins  in  sincere  testimonies  of  regard 
for  Mrs.  Izard— yourself  and  family,  with 
Dear  sir, 

Yours,  assuredly, 

JOHN  LLOYD. 


[  372  J 

From  the  same  to  the  same. 
HAVRE  DE  GRACE,  October  30,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

Soon  after  I  wrote  you  last,  Mr. 
Limozen  told  me  that  he  had  some  expectation  of 
procuring  two  vessels,  one  of  about  120,  and  the 
other  of  180  Tons,  upon  the  terms  of  230  livres 
per  ton,  payable  upon  the  delivery  of  their  Car- 
goes  in  this  Port,  at  and  after  the  rate  of  2,000  wt. 
of  Rice,  1,600  Indigo  and  1,800  Tobacco  ;  but  ob 
served  that  the  owners  required  that  their  Cap 
tains  should,  if  requested—be  each  of  them  supplied 
at  Charlestown,  by  your  agent— with  a  sum,  not 
exceeding  the  value  of  two  hundred  pounds  ster 
ling—to  defray  their  disbursements  in  that  Port— 
and  the  amount  to  be  indorsed  on  their  respective 
bill  of  lading — in  French  money— as  so  much  re 
ceived  in  part  of  their  freight — which  subjects  you 
to  the  loss  of  the  sum  advanced — provided  the  ves 
sels  should  be  taken— and  to  cover  the  same  by 
Insurance,  either  in  this  Kingdom— or  in  Charles- 
town,  will  increase  the  freight  to  near  250  livres 
per  ton. 


[  373  ] 

As  I  do  not  believe  vessels  are  to  be  procured 
upon  better  terms,  1  have  not  made  any  material 
objection  to  the  requisition — but  I  have  some 
doubts  about  the  adjustment  of  the  exchange — be 
ing  afraid  that  the  present  state  of  the  Currency, 
and  the  Law  which  the  Legislature  has  passed  to 
prevent  its  depreciation  may  occasion  dissatisfac 
tory  obstacles  to  the  Captains.  The  mode  which 
I  think  the  best  to  ascertain  it,  is  to  submit  the 
matter  to  the  Chamber  of  Commerce,  or  to  such 
proper  and  disinterested  persons,  as  his  Excellency 
the  President  might  be  pleased  to  appoint. 

As  the  owners  are  not  all  resident  here — a  con 
clusive  determination,  cannot  be  immediately  ob 
tained — and  as  I  shall  set  off  in  the  course  of  an 
hour  or  two — I  must  leave  Mr.  Limozen  to  cor 
respond  with  you  upon  the  subject — and  for  which 
purpose  I  have  given  him  a  letter  of  introduction 
to  you. 

Salt  cannot  be  procured  here — but  at  a  much 
higher  price,  than  at  Croisie  (which  is  the  place 
where  vessels  load  that  go  from  Nantes.)  I  have 
therefore  required,  that  those  which  may  be  en 
gaged  upon  your  account,  must  proceed  there  for 
it — which  Mr.  Limozen  gives  me  reason  to  think, 
will  be  complied  with — indeed  it  must  be  insisted 
on — as  the  difference  is  of  consequence. 
33 


[  374  J 

I  would  advise  you  to  have  them  fully  loaded 
with  that  article — as  it  will  greatly  lessen  your 
freight — and  supposing  the  cost  should  exceed  the 
sum,  which  you  would  choose  at  present  to  ad 
vance — Mr.  Limozen,  will  I  believe  make  that  mat 
ter  perfectly  easy  to  you — at  least  I  have  reason 
to  think  so — from  what  he  has  said  to  me — but  re 
lative  thereto — you  will  in  course,  have  a  satisfac 
tory  explanation. 

If  you  should  Charter,  the  sum  advanced  the 
Captains,  in  Carolina,  may  be  insured  conditionally 
in  France,  which  will  be  better  than  having  it 
made  in  Carolina — as  in  case  of  loss,  you  will  re 
ceive  the  money  on  this  side — which  1  apprehend 
will  be  more  suitable  to  you. 

You  will  let  me  know  if  you  charter — as  I  have 
some  observations  to  make,  that  may  be  expedient 
for  you  to  repeat  to  your  Attornies — and  Mr. 
Owen. 

With  Mrs.  Lloyd's  affectionate  remembrance  to 
Mrs.  Izard,  and  my  own  respectful  compliments, 
I  am,  dear  sir, 

Assuredly,  yours, 

JOHN  LLOYD. 


[375  ] 

From  Daniel  Blake,  Esq.  to  Mr.  hard. 

BRUSSELS,  November  7,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

My  jaunt  to  Holland  was  attended 
with  no  other  success,  than  that  of  settling  a  cor 
respondence  at  Curracoa,  and  St.  Eustatia — in 
case  I  should  choose  to  ship  my  produce  that  way. 

The  Dutchmen  are  too  cautious  to  risk  their 
vessels — and  the  premium  of  Insurance  is  too  high* 
to  send  any  thing  from  thence  to  America — they 
ask  forty  per  cent  out. 

I  could  not  meet  with  any  plantation  Tools,  that 
would  answer.  I  saw  some  Cloth — and  believe  I 
shall  order  mine  out  in  the  spring — by  the  way  of 
one  of  their  Islands. 

I  am  endeavouring  to  get  a  house  here— to  fix 
Mrs.  B.  and  Miss  S.  for  the  winter — which  as  soon 
as  I  have  done,  shall  go  for  London.  I  am  sorry 
the  season  is  so  far  advanced  that  I  cannot  do  my- 
self  the  pleasure  of  congratulating  you  and  Mrs. 
Izard  in  person — -on  the  birth  of  your  Daughter— 
and  on  your  late  appointment — two  events — that  I 
assure  you — give  me  great  pleasure. 


[  376  ] 

Walter  left  us  a  few  days  ago — he  proposes 
spending  a  month  at  Margate.  I  suppose  you  have 
heard  of  the  death  of  poor  Wragg — he  was  washed 
overboard. 

Various  are  the  Reports  here — some  say  that 
Washington  has  been  defeated  by  Howe — others, 
that  Burgoyne  has  met  with  a  check  ;  should  you 
have  any  agreeable  news  from  authority---!  shall 
be  glad  to  have  the  earliest  notice  of  it.  Mrs.  B. 
and  Miss  S.  desire  to  join  me  in  compliments  to 
Mrs.  Izard. 

I  am,  dear  sir,  your  sincere  friend, 

And  most  humble  servant, 

DANL.  BLAKE. 


From  John  Lloyd  Esq.,  to  Mr.  hard. 

ANCENES,  November  12,  1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

I  think  my  last  was  dated  30th 
ultimo  from  Havre,  where  1  was  detained  a  day 
longer  than  I  intended.  The  route  that  I  took  lay 


[  377  1 

through  part  of  Lower  Normandy — where  I  found 
the  roads  exceeding  bad — which,  with  frequent  dis 
appointments  respecting  horses,  greatly  retarded 
the  progress  of  my  journey. 

My  friend  having  wrote  to  me — that  suitable  and 
convenient  lodgings  were  not  to  be  immediately 
procured  at  Nantes — I  determined  to  stay  at  this 
place— till  accommodations  could  be  obtained--- 
•which  I  have  reason  to  expect  will  be  the  case  in 
a  few  days. 

It  concerns  me  to  acquaint  you,  that  I  am  ad 
vised  of  several  vessels  being  taken — bound  from 
Carolina  to  France,  by  British  Men  of  War,  and 
which  are  arrived  at  Gibraltar  and  Lisbon.  From 
the  latter  place,  I  have  a  letter  from  Captain  Man, 
of  the  Alarm  Frigate — who  encloses  me  some  let 
ters,  which  fell  into  his  hands.  This  mark  of  po 
liteness  I  attribute  to  a  personal  acquaintance — and 
a  particular  intimacy  that  subsisted  between  us, 
some  years  since.  I  mention  his  name  to  you— but 
you  will  not  speak  of  it — as  it  is  a  conduct,  that 
might  subject  him  to  censure — if  known  at  the  Ad 
miralty. 

I  have  nothing  very  consequential  to  transmit 

you-  -that  I  have  received  from  Charlestown.     I 

am  sorry  to  tell  you — that  the  Coast  was  strictly 

watched  by  the  Bruine,  Perseus,  and  Galatea  Fri- 

33* 


[378  ] 

gates — who  were  stationed  to  cruise  between  St. 
Augustine  and  Cape  Fear.  There  can  be  no  doubt, 
but  they  must  have  taken  a  good  many  prizes.  It 
was  hoped  that  the  apprehension  incident  to  the 
Hurricane  season — would  occasion  them  to  depart. 

Notwithstanding  these  Frigates  were  in  sight  of 
the  Bar — a  French  Sloop,  from  the  West  Indies, 
with  twelve  brass  Field  Pieces — and  a  very  con- 
siderable  supply  of  ammunition — got  safe  into  the 
Harbour. 

The  Randolph  was  still  in  Port,  and  could  not 
proceed  to  sea,  for  want  of  hands.  To  remedy  as 
much  as  possible  that  disagreeable  circumstance — 
the  State  by  Proclamation  offers  a  very  large 
Bounty — to  encourage  Seamen  to  enter. 

From  what  I  hear — I  am  afraid  the  Insurance 
Company — has  sustained  losses  too  considerable — 
for  them  to  continue  that  expedient  establishment, 
which  I  was  hopeful  they  might  have  been  en 
couraged  to  extend. 

Mr.  Laurens — by  his  appointment  to  Congress 
— having  vacated  his  Office  of  Vice  President  (of 
the  State,)  Mr.  James  Parsons  is  elected  in  his 
room. 

I  have  no  doubt  from  what  I  discovered  during 
my  residence  at  Rouen,  and  Havre,  that  Mr. 
Deane,  has  private — as  well  as  publick  pursuits — 


[  379  ] 

and  I  am  more  than  ever  convinced — that  he  is  a 
very  improper  person  to  be  applied  to — for  advice 
or  assistance  relative  to  a  Loan — wherein  he  is 
not  materially  interested.  I  am  confident  your 
idea  of  the  man  is  just — in  every  particular — but 
our  opinions  of— and  concerning  him — as  also  oth 
ers — it  will  be  most  prudent — to  reserve  solely  to 
ourselves — for  reasons  which  are  sufficiently  mani 
fest. 

The  plan  which  I  proposed— appears  so  very 
advantageous — and  so  easily  carried  into  execu 
tion—that  I  cannot  avoid  desiring  you — not  to  give 
up  your  contemplations  upon  the  subject;  but  if  it 
can  be  done  with  propriety— renew  your  applica 
tions  to  Beaumarchais — or  apply  elsewhere. 

It  is  my  present  intention — to  wait  for  some 
further  advices  from  Carolina — before  I  absolutely 
determine  about  my  embarkation — and  if  we  should 
succeed  in  obtaining  a  Loan — that — will  of  conse 
quence — detain  me — as  I  should  like  to  give  my 
personal  attention — to  the  execution  of  the  busi 
ness. 

There  having  been  no  arrivals  at  Nantes— from 
any  part  of  America — for  some  time — I  have  no 
thing  material  to  inform  you  of  from  thence.  I  am 
told  there  is  a  new  Frigate  equipping  for  Captain 
Nicholson ;  she  is  a  very  fine  ship— built  at  Nantes, 


[  380  ] 

and  will  mount  thirty-six  Guns — twenty-four  of 
which  are  to  be  twelve  pounders.  The  business 
is  conducted  privately — and  avowed  publickly— to 
be  for — and  on  account  of  Frenchmen — but  (entre 
nous)  you  may  depend  upon  it — she  is  intended  for 
the  Congress. 

The  Raleigh— and  Alfred— that  put  into  L'Ori- 
ent,  were  careened  in  the  King's  Dock — and  sup 
plied  with  whatever  they  had  occasion  for — out  of 
his  Stores,  without  expense.  The  two  prizes  that 
they  brought  in — were  disposed  of— without  any 
molestation.  Those  two — which  have  been  so 
much  the  subject  of  conversation — are  certainly  to 
be  given  up,  to  the  English— and  I  am  informed — 
that  a  Frigate  will  be  admitted — for  the  purpose 
of  taking  them  under  Convoy.  How  can  you  re- 
concile  such  inconsistent  conduct— in  the  French 
Ministry— and  that  of  the  British  submitting  to  it  ? 

I  am  ashamed  to  tell  you  that  I  have  forgot  your 
request,  respecting  the  address  of  your  letters.  As 
the  most  certain,  I  shall  direct  this,  to  the  care  of 
Bousie. 

Mrs.  Lloyd  joins  in  the  most  affectionate  assu 
rances  of  regard  for  Mrs.  Izard,  yourself,  and 
family,  with  Dear  sir, 

Your  sincere, 

JOHN  LLOYD. 


L  381   ] 

I  was  at  the  instant  of  closing  this  letter,  when 
I  received  your  favour  of  the  7th.  From  what 
Mr.  Limozen  writes  to  you— and  from  the  tenor 
of  his  letter  to  me — which  came  to  hand  this  day 
— I  have  very  little  expectation  that  he  will  suc 
ceed—in  procuring  any  vessels  for  you — upon 
suitable  terms,  at  Havre  de  Grace. 

I  shall  look  out  for  you  at  Nantes,  but  I  cannot 
give  you  any  reason  to  hope — that  I  shall  succeed 
—at  least  at  present— and  the  future  demands 
will  be  governed  I  suppose— accordingly  to  the 
aspect  of  public  affairs. 

I  observe  you  have  had  a  long  conversation 
with  the  Ludlows,*  and  the  intention  of  the  eldest 
—and  that  in  consequence— I  became  the  subject 
of  your  contemplation— which  I  ascribe  to  your 
attentive — and  sincere  friendly  attachment — and 
shall  hold  the  same  in  grateful  remembrance — as  I 
esteem  it  the  most  convincing  proof  of  your  confi 
dential  regard.  Your  request  for  an  immediate 
reply  to  the  important  question — which  you  have 
honored  me  with — prevents  me  from  giving  the 
subject — that  mature  consideration  that  I  wish. 

Being  extremely  desirous  to  render  myself  as 
serviceable  as  possible  to  the  United  States — 

*  The  Lees. 


[  382  ] 

whose  prosperity — I  have  most  sincerely  at  heart 
— and  to  be  instrumental  in  promoting  it,  is  a  cir 
cumstance — that  I  devoutly  wish.  For  which  rea 
sons — I  should  esteem  it,  not  only  the  most  honor 
able — but  a  fortunate,  and  happy  event — to  be 
recommended  to  Congress — by  such  respectable 
names  as  yours,  and  the  two  gentlemen  you  men 
tion — and  I  am  almost  induced  to  say — that  I 
would  undertake  to  execute  to  the  utmost  of  my 
abilities — whatever  trust,  office,  or  appointment, 
that  illustrious  Body,  should  think  proper  to  con 
fer  upon  me.  But  with  respect  to  the  particular 
one  under  consideration — I  am  confident  the  busi 
ness  thereof  cannot  be  conducted  writh  any  degree 
of  propriety—or  satisfaction — except  there  is  a 
most  effectual  removal  of  the  present  Agent— who 
appears  possessed  of  full,  and  ample  powers— and 
still  continues— his  long  accustomed  course ;  for 
which  reason — until  there  was  an  absolute  cer 
tainty  of  that  step's  being  taken— I  could  not  give 
my  assent  to  an  acceptance. 

I  have  upon  this  occasion— to  request  that  you 
will  be  pleased  to  present  my  most  respectful  ac 
knowledgments  to  the  Messrs.  L.  for  their  obliging 
testimony  of  friendship— which  you  will  assure 
them  that  I  shall  always  study  to  merit. 

I  am  extremely  sorry,  that  the  acrimonious  hu- 


[  383  ] 

mour,  continues  to  prevail,  among  the  Controllers, 
(Commissioners) — as  I  think  it  cannot  but  produce 
effects— which  must  prove  injurious  to  the  business 
that  they  have  to  transact— besides  rendering  them 
objects  of  contempt— to  those  with  whom  they 
ought  to  be  respectable. 

The  disagreeable  report,  respecting  General 
Washington,  gives  me  a  great  deal  of  concern — as 
it  is  mentioned  to  me  from  England,  with  a  confi 
dent  assurance  of  its  being  true— but  I  hope  to  God 
it  may  prove  false. 

It  is  certain,  however,  that  Burgoyne  has  been 
trimmed. 

There  was  nothing  new  at  Nantes  yesterday— 
except  that  a  Privateer  has  sent  into  Queberoon 
Bay,  a  victualling  transport.  With  sincere  and 
affectionate  assurances,  I  bid  you  adieu. 


[  384  ] 

From  the  same  to  the  same. 

NANTES,  November  20, 1777. 
DEAR  SIR  : — 

My  last  was  dated  the  12th  inst.  I  came  here 
yesterday.  My  detention  at  Aneenes  was  longer 
than  I  wished  for,  or  expected.  * 

The  Amphitrite  is  arrived  at  L'Orient.  She 
sailed  from  Charlestown,  the  22d  September,  and 
has  brought  a  Cargo  of  Rice  and  Indigo. 

I  have  received  a  letter  by  her— from  my  friend 
Mr.  Lowndes— dated  the  16th  September,  who  is 
very  urgent  in  recommending  me  to  make  a  visit 
to  Carolina — if  it  was  only  to  stay  one,  or  two 
months.  His  reasons  are  so  forcible— as  well  for 
public— as  private  considerations—that  I  have  al 
most  determined  to  embrace  the  first  convenient— 
and  suitable  conveyance— which  may  offer  for 
America. 

I  should  have  no  objection  to  be  landed  as  near 
Philadelphia  as  possible— as  I  wish  to  pay  my  re 
spects  to  some  members  of  Congress—besides— I 
am  disposed  to  think,  that  a  personal  acquaintance, 


L  385  ] 

with  that  illustrious  body— through  the  introduc 
tion  of  your  good  self,  and  the  Messrs.  Lee— may 
be  attended  with  a  satisfactory— and  personal  be 
nefit — more  especially— as  you  and  they  have 
thought  me  deserving  of  an  honourable  and  bene 
ficial  appointment. 

I  am  told  that  the  brothers  of  the  gentlemen 
whom  I  have  just  mentioned—are  leading  Members 
of  Congress — and  that  they  have  in  consequence 
great  influence.  If  that  is  the  case — I  think  Deane 
stands  on  very  uncertain  ground— as  you  may  de. 
pend  upon  it— his  conduct  will  not  be  represented 
in  the  most  favourable  point  of  view  to  them — 
which  joined  to  M — 's  inveteracy— will  form  a  col 
lective  power — that  may  throw  him  from  his  pre 
sent  exalted  pinnacle,  to  the  dreadful  abyss  of  na 
tive  insignificance.  From  the  intimations  of  a 
friend  of  Deane's — I  have  some  cause  to  believe 
that  such  an  event,  would  not  be  very  unexpected. 

Letters  from  L'Orient  mention  that  the  Officers 
of  the  Amphitrite,  assert  with  confidence— that  the 
Randolph  Frigate— Captain  Biddle — had  sailed 
from  Charlestown — and  that  she  had  taken  several 
Jamaica  Men — a  twenty  gun  British  Man-of-War — 
two  armed  Tenders— and  retaken  a  French  Ship. 
If  one  half  is  true — it  is  a  noble  affair — there  being 
many  circumstances  omitted  in  the  information, 
34 


[  386  ] 

which  I  think  ought  to  have  been  mentioned — and 
as  my  letter  of  the  16th  September  contains  no 
such  intelligence— I  am  inclined  to  suspend  my  be 
lief.  Rice  was  at  505.  *  *  * 
All  kinds  of  European  goods  were  extravagantly 
dear — and  continually  advancing — owing  to  their 
want  of  supply — and  the  great  resort  of  the  North 
ern  States — to  purchase. 

As  to  the  essential  article  of  Negro  clothing — a 
great  number — manufactured  their  own  entirely — 
and  the  example  was  followed  very  fast.  The 
greatest  difficulty  was  in  the  commencement.  In 
short  the  people  in  general — began  to  be  accus 
tomed  to  do  without — what  they  were  taught  from 
long  habit — to  call  the  necessaries  of  life— insomuch 
that  they  would  be  soon  brought  to  esteem  them 
as  mere  superfluities. 

A  vessel  which  Mr.  Blake  chartered  soon  after 
coming  to  Nantes — was  got  safe  to  Charlestown, 
with  a  cargo  of  Salt — which  sold  for  the  enormous 
price  of  70s.  a  bushel. 

The  Dean  and  Chapter  of  Munster*  have  lately 
issued  some  very  rigid  preventive  orders — relative 
to  the  exportation  of  Arms,  and  Ammunition — 
which  occasions  difficulties  that  are  not  immedi- 

*  Probably  the  King  and  Ministry  of  France. 


[  387  ] 

ately  surmountable.  They  have  also  transmitted 
positive  directions  to  their  Commissioners  of  Marine 
— not  to  permit  any  more  than  the  peace  comple 
ment  of  Seamen — to  be  received  on  board  of  mer 
chant  ships — which  is  directly  intended  to  prevent 
the  equipment  of  armed  vessels — under  the  sanc 
tion  of for  the  service  of  America. 

These  circumstances  are  a  very  plain  manifesta 
tion  to  me — that  L S is  consequentially 

attended  to — and  that  the  Controllers  meet  with  the 
contempt  which  I  am  sorry  to  say — their  conduct 
so  justly  merits. 

Mrs. joins  me  in  sincere  and  affectionate 

testimonies  to  Mrs.  I.  and  yourself — with  him 
who  is,  dear  sir,  most  assuredly  yours. 

P.  S.  Mr.  Lowndes  mentions  the  landing  of 
Howe — but  does  not  seem  to  be  the  least  appre 
hensive  that  he  will  do  any  thing  consequential. 
All  the  Cattle — and  every  thing  that  could  be  of 
any  service  to  him — were  removed. 


[  388  ] 

From  Mrs.  hard  to  Wm.  Duer,  Esq. 

PARIS,  November  24,  1777. 
SIR:— 

Mr.  Izard  is  extremely  ill — with  a  severe 
fit  of  the  gout — which  deprives  him  of  the  use  01 
his  hands — he  therefore  employs  me,  to  convey  his 
sentiments  to  you,  upon  a  subject  in  which  he  feels 
himself  exceedingly  interested — as  he  thinks  the 
welfare  of  his  Country — is  concerned  in  it. 

The  present  Commercial  Agent  in  France,  has 
by  his  conduct,  long  shewn  himself  a  very  im 
proper  person  to  be  employed  in  so  important  an 
Office.  Frequent  complaints  of  his  behaviour  have 
been  sent  to  Congress — and  Mr.  Izard  hopes  they 
will  at  length  have  so  much  weight — as  to  get  him 
removed  from  an  appointment — of  which  he  has 
proved  himself  to  be  altogether  unworthy. 

He  desires  me  to  request  the  favour  of  your  in 
terest — in  behalf  of  Mr.  John  Lloyd,  of  Charles- 
town — who  is  now  settled  in  France — a  Merchant 
of  very  respectable  character— and  a  gentleman, 
of  whose  integrity,  and  zeal  for  the  good  of  Ame- 


[  389  ] 

rica — he  has  the  highest  opinion.  He  thinks  if  he 
should  be  appointed  to  that  Office — the  Public  will 
have  every  reason  to  be  satisfied  with  his  con 
duct. 

I  take  the  liberty  of  enclosing  a  letter  to  my 
Mother.  You  will  oblige  me  very  much,  if  you 
will  transmit  it  to  her — and  you  will  make  me  very 
happy — if  you  procure  me  the  means  of  hearing 
from  her. 

Mr.  Arthur  Lee,  was  with  us  this  morning.  He 
desires  me  to  present  his  compliments  to  you. 

34* 


From  M.  de  Beaumarchais  to  Mr.  hard. 

PARIS,  September  10,  1777. 

I  have  the  honor  to  inform  you,  sir,  that  I  have 
ordered  according  to  the  note  you  sent  me,  500 
blankets.  They  will  be  G£  feet  long,  by  4£  feet 
wide.  One  of  my  friends  has  also  promised  me  to 
furnish  3,000  Ells  of  Negro  Cloth— and  I  am  glad 
to  inform  you  the  whole  will  go  about  the  15th 

October. 

No  real  friend  of  the  Americans  will  meet  with 

difficulty,  or  even  lukewarmness  from  me. 

I  send  you  this  information  by  Mr.  de  Franey, 
my  Supercargo,  and  Agent  for  my  American  busi 
ness.  You  may  judge  from  the  nature  of  the  em 
ployment,  with  which  he  is  charged,  that  he  is  a 
man  to  be  depended  on.  If  you  wish  to  send  any 
important  papers  to  your  friends  in  America,  he 
will  take  charge  of  them,  and  deliver  them  faithfully. 
I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

With  the  highest  consideration,  sir, 
Your  very  humble  and 

Very  obedient  servant, 
CARON  DE  BEAUMARCHAIS. 
Mr.  IZARD. 


ERRATA. 

Page  4,  line  7,  for  sending  read  send. 

3,         2,  for  Dunnekur,  read  Dunnechen. 

22,  26,  for  superior,  read  supreme. 

49,  17,  for  one,  read  own 
75,          4,  for  affection,  read  affectionate. 
82,          7,  Burmuda,  read  Bermuda. 
163,         2,  for  Zoue,  read  iord. 

163,  23,  for  Bounswickers,  read  Brunswickers. 

169,  22,  for  Dasseldorp,  read  Dusseldrop. 

:  23,  for  Wanderwerfs,  Vanderwerfs. 
200,          3,  for  Limns,  read  Livius. 

331,  24,  for  Banguier,  read  Banquier. 

:  25,  for  Monmatre,  read  Monmartre. 

333,  5,  for  interrupted,  read  intercepted. 

334,  13,  for  Hables,  read  Staples. 
:  :    for  Diepe,  read  Dieppe. 

329,  18,  for  prevenu,  read  prevenir. 
369,        12,  for  Benricke,  read  Bewicke. 
:  :    for  Mencing,  read  Mincing. 


14  DAY  USE 

RETURN  TO  DESK  FROM  WHICH  BORROWED 

LOAN  DIPT. 

This  book  is  due  on  the  last  date  stamped  below, 
or  on  the  date  to  which  renewed.  Renewals  only: 

Tel.  No.  642-3405 

Renewals  may  be  made  4  days  prior  to  date  due. 
Renewed  books  are  subject  to  immediate  recall. 


RECT1 


33- 


SEP  03 1993 


~- 


LD2lA-10m-8,'73 
(R1902810)476 — A-31 


General  Library 

University  of  California 

Berkeley 


n 


THE  UNIVERSITY  OF  CALIFORNIA  LIBRARY 


U.C.BERKELEY  LIBRARIES 


CQI45617123 


